Dangerous viruses or spyware can infiltrate your computer, slowing it down or damaging your files. Here are some ways to Protect Yourself and Your Device.
The latest release of Windows 11 from Microsoft uses the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) to secure the login process, UEFI Secure Boot to prevent malware from taking over the system during booting, and Virtualization-Based Security (VBS) to provide better kernel protection against potential threats. These security features make Windows 11 a more secure operating system compared to Windows 10. However, this is just the beginning of the security features that Microsoft has built into Windows 11. There are several additional security measures you need to take to protect your Windows 11 PC from hackers.
In this article, we have summarized some of the best tips to maximize your protection. Here, we do not only focus on Windows 11 devices, as many threats come from external sources. To Protect Your Computer from Hackers, Spyware, and Viruses, you need to pay close attention to network traffic, email accounts, authentication mechanisms, and inexperienced users.
How to Secure Your Computer from Hacking?
Updating Windows 11 and installing applications are among the first steps to securing your computer. Additionally, enabling Windows Firewall to prevent unauthorized access and performing a full system scan with the latest antivirus program helps protect your computer from viruses, malware, and other types of malicious software. Always use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication for internet logins to add an extra layer of security to protect Windows 11 from spyware. Be cautious with email attachments, avoid suspicious websites, and use a virtual private network (VPN) that protects your activities and keeps your information secure.
1. Ensure Windows 11 is Updated
To keep your PC safe from hackers and viruses, it is crucial to routinely download and install Windows 11 updates. The latest Windows updates bring fixes for random bugs and new security threats that emerge on the internet almost daily. The same applies to all other applications or games installed on your computer. Additionally, updating Windows or other applications enhances your software's stability and optimizes system performance.
- Press the Windows + S key, type Windows Update, and press Enter.
- Click the check for updates button.
- If new updates are available, allow them to download and install from the Microsoft server.
- Once completed, you will need to restart your computer to apply the Windows updates.
Also, open the Microsoft Store, go to the library, and click check for updates to update the apps on your computer.
Note – Update all other third-party applications and games on your computer as well.
2. Enable Real-Time Protection
Virus or malware infections are another common way hackers can attack your system. Make sure that Real-Time Protection is enabled in Windows Security, formerly known as Windows Defender. Additionally, perform a full system scan to detect and remove any virus or malware infections from your system.
To enable real-time protection in Windows Security:
- Press the Windows + S key, type Windows Security, and select it at the top.
- Select Virus & Threat Protection, then go to Manage Settings.
- Here, enable Real-Time Protection and Cloud-Delivered Protection.
Additionally, you can use third-party antivirus software and ensure it is always updated with the latest virus definitions. This will help protect your computer from viruses, malware, and other types of malicious software.
3. Enable Windows Defender Firewall
A firewall can help prevent unauthorized access to your computer by blocking incoming traffic from potentially harmful sources. Make sure to keep the Windows Defender firewall active to block unauthorized access and prevent malware attempts.
Click the Start menu, search for Windows Security, and select it. Go to Firewall & Network Protection and ensure the firewall is enabled for all types of connections.
4. Protect your account with strong password
Using Windows 11 without password protection can leave your PC vulnerable to unauthorized access by people around you.
- Press the Windows + X key and select Settings.
- Go to Accounts, then select Sign-in options.
- Here, expand the Password section and click Add.
- Now enter a new password and fill in the relevant information in the new dialog box. Finally, click Finish.
Additionally, use strong and unique passwords for all your internet accounts and change them periodically. Avoid using easily guessed passwords like "123456" or "password." A strong password usually includes a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters like !, @, or $. Ensure that you use a strong and complex password and do not use the same password across multiple accounts. You may consider using a password manager to keep your passwords safe and secure.
5. Enable two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your internet accounts. Always use two-factor authentication whenever possible, especially for sensitive accounts like banking or email accounts, which provide additional security by requiring a second form of authentication, such as a code sent to your phone. This can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your device.
6. Be Cautious with Email Attachments and Suspicious Links
Additionally, be cautious or avoid opening email attachments from unknown or suspicious sources, as they may contain viruses or malware. Avoid clicking on links in suspicious online advertisements, attachments from emails that seem to be from trusted sources, and any links on social media from people you do not know.Always be wary of unsolicited emails or messages and double-check the sender's identity. It is recommended to avoid clicking on links or downloading files from suspicious websites, as they may also contain viruses or malware.
Additionally, enable drive encryption to ensure that your data cannot be accessed or read without proper authentication, whether it's a password, smart card, or other authentication mechanisms.
7. Tighten Your Security Settings
Here are some additional steps you can take to protect your privacy and secure your device from third-party access:
Turn off ad tracking: From Settings -> Privacy & Security. Click General and slide the toggle to Off for all four options.
Disable location access: Open the Settings app and go to Privacy & Security > Location, then turn off the option.
Disable Activity History: Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Activity History and toggle off the switch next to "Store my activity history on this device".
Stop sending diagnostic data: Open Settings > Privacy & Security > Diagnostics & Feedback. Then turn off the option next to Send optional diagnostic data.
Turn off app diagnostics: Select Settings > Privacy & Security > App Diagnostics, and in the App Diagnostic Access section, slide the toggle from On to Off.
Turn off Shared Experiences: Go to Settings > Apps > Advanced App Settings > Share Across Devices and toggle the button to Off.
Additionally, enable and create a system restore point to help revert your computer to its previous state before problems start to occur.
Always avoid downloading or installing pirated software or illegal materials such as movies, music, books, and even software, especially if those items are not from trusted or reliable sources. This is one of the quickest ways to unknowingly install malware on your computer, which will cause additional problems over time.
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