Your computer has lots of private data, that should be protected. Here are a 10 steps designed to enhance the overall security of your Windows systems, aimed at the a every day user.
- Set a BIOS password. An attacker will be unable to boot your computer from a Live CD or USB drive, preventing access to any unencrypted parts of the disk by bypassing authentication.
- Enable secure boot in the BIOS. This protects a user’s from threats like ransomware, because it ensures that all code running immediately after the operating system boots must be signed by Microsoft or the hardware manufacturer.
- Encrypt the whole hard drive. By using BitLocker for Windows (built into the system), you can encrypt your device. It safeguards your data against unauthorized access, such as in the event of theft.
- Your software and operating system need to be constantly updated. By enabling automatic system with the option “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available” you will always be up to date.
- Create a separate administrator account with a strong password. Avoid giving your user account admin rights, this prevents accidental changes or unwanted installations.
- Ensure that both your firewall and antivirus are active. Windows Security app and the Windows Firewall, work together to provide comprehensive protection by scanning for threats and blocking unauthorized network access.
- Don’t install applications from unknown sources. Always download from trusted sources and check the file signature. Avoid downloading or installing pirated software.
- Avoid connecting to unknown networks. An attacker can create a fake, unencrypted network with a name (SSID) similar to one you’ve previously connected to, causing your computer to connect to it automatically and allowing the attacker to intercept your data.
- Don’t leave your logins and passwords in unencrypted text files. If your computer is compromised or accessed by someone else, these files can be easily read and misused, leading to potential theft of your sensitive information.
- Enable regular file backups. Using tools like File History, recovery drives, and cloud storage to safeguard your data against hardware failures or malware attacks.
By following these 10 steps, you can proactively secure your Windows systems. Although some steps may require technical know-how, implementing these practices will establish a strong defense against unauthorized access and safeguard your personal information.
