Every day our lives are becoming more intertwined with digital cyberspace. The concept of private information is slowly disappearing thanks to the increase in cyber threats. Whether it is your address, phone number, or social security number, nothing is entirely secure in today’s age of the internet.
Windows users might be at more risk than others as this operating system has seen its fair share of security lapses. However, with the recent Windows operating system updates, things have been completely changed. It has become one of the most secure operating systems in the world. That still doesn’t mean it is not vulnerable to any cyber attacks in the future.
Our essential tips for Windows users to strengthen their security will ensure that you are protected against any kind of cyberattack. Don’t worry, we will not just tell you about Virtual Private Networks, even though it is still one of the most effective tools to protect you against cyberattacks. Therefore, to enhance your security, you can try a leading VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN, and you will see that we weren’t wrong.
With that aside, let’s get on with our tips for Windows users to strengthen their security.
Windows Hello
Windows Hello isn’t just a simple method for users to sign in to their Windows device. It is an advanced security system developed by Windows to help sign in using biometric authentication methods. These methods include iris authentication, facial recognition, or fingerprint.
We are about to enter into the period where passwords will be an old-school method. They can easily be hacked or stolen that can seriously compromise your device access.
To activate Windows Hello for your device, follow the steps below:
- Go to Start
- Settings
- Accounts
- Sign-in options,
- Select the Windows Hello
Windows 10 update
This is one of the essential tips for Windows users to strengthen their security. I am confident that many of you, just like me, are guilty of delaying or not installing our Windows OS update. We think it isn’t essential, and we don’t require the new feature that will be available with the update, but it is much more about that.
At any given time, the OS version you are using isn’t perfect. It has different loopholes and software elements that are outdated with time. Therefore, Windows security patches are required to ensure that your operating system is fully equipped to counter various forms of malicious attacks.
Without these security patches, you are vulnerable to cyber attacks, identity theft, and fraud. You must always install these updates on time.
Windows Firewall
If your Windows device is always connected to the internet, then enabling a Windows firewall is necessary. Firewalls are widespread and adequate security measures against any unauthorized access to the computer.
As an industry standard, the firewall is enabled by default in all of the Windows operating systems, but if you wish to make some changes in its settings, you can do that by following the steps below.
- Go to Settings
- Click on Update & Security
- Click on Windows Security
- Click on Firewall & Network Protection
- Make the changes from here
Windows Defender
A lot of people confuse Windows Defender with Windows Firewall. They both are different things and serve other purposes. Think of Windows defender as Antivirus software.
Using Windows Defender over any pricey third party AntiVirus is highly recommended. Windows Defender is developed and maintained by the people that know the operating system best. Also, using a third party Antivirus will slow down your device as well.
Virtual Private Network
No security list can be completed without a VPN. If you are using an untrusted Wi-Fi network like a public Wi-Fi connection, then there is a chance your internet data can be tracked and stolen by malicious entities.
Using a VPN on your Windows device, you can obtain complete anonymity and privacy of your identity and data at the same time. Almost all of the premium VPN providers use military-grade encryption that secures your internet data so that no one can compromise it. If you usually use your Windows device in a cafe or any public place, we recommend taking the assistance of a VPN to strengthen your security.
Not only will a VPN provide you security and encryption, but it will also make your online streaming experience great with its ability to overcome geo-blocks set up by different streaming services and high-speed internet connection for bufferless streaming. Speaking of which, you can check out these tips for improving your streaming experience with a Virtual Private Network if you’re an avid binge watcher.
Administrative privileges
If your Windows device is shared among multiple users, it is advisable to create separate individual standard accounts with administrative privileges. Nobody should have access to an administrative account when they don’t need to. They could potentially make dangerous changes to your computer. It is better to keep the administrative privileges on your account only.
System Restore
It is always good to have a backup. In case your device or data is compromised at some point, there’s still a chance you can restore your system and its settings to a particular time in the past. It is disabled by default, so you can enable it using the steps mentioned below:
- Launch Windows search bar and type “System Restore”
- Select Control Panel
- Click on “Create a Restore Point”
- Click on System Protection Tab
- Select the drive that has Windows OS installed
- Click on Configure
- Click on Turn on System Protection
System Restore point has been created. You can always bring back your machine to this moment in time.
This brings us to the end of this article. We hope that our tips will be helpful to you in protecting your system security. It is also necessary to mention that Windows is ceasing support for not only its previous versions but also the versions that were released two years ago. Windows 10 build 1909, whose support will be halted next month – you may want to bite the bullet and keep on upgrading to the newer version for the sake of your device and data security.
Conclusion
Although the tips we have mentioned should be sufficient for your Windows device, if you are interested in knowing more about different online threats and protecting your device from them, we recommend reading these essential steps to protect your online activities.
