Essential Windows Security Settings for a Safe & Secure PC Setup

When setting up a new Windows PC, it's crucial to prioritize security to protect your data and maintain system integrity. Here are six essential security settings to adjust immediately:
1. Enable Windows Defender Antivirus
Windows Defender is the built-in antivirus solution that offers real-time protection against malware and other threats. To ensure it's active:

• Open the Windows Security app.
• Navigate to Virus & threat protection.
• Confirm that Real-time protection is turned on.

Regularly updating Windows Defender ensures you have the latest security definitions.
2. Configure Windows Firewall
The Windows Firewall monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic, blocking unauthorized access. To verify it's enabled:

• Open Windows Security.
• Click on Firewall & network protection.
• Ensure that the firewall is active for Domain, Private, and Public networks.

A properly configured firewall acts as a barrier against external threats.
3. Set Up User Account Control (UAC)
UAC helps prevent unauthorized changes to your system by prompting for permission or an administrator's password before allowing actions that could affect system settings. To adjust UAC settings:

• Type "UAC" in the Windows search bar and select Change User Account Control settings.
• Move the slider to the desired level of notification. For optimal security, select Always notify.

This setting ensures you're alerted to potential unauthorized changes.
4. Enable BitLocker Drive Encryption
BitLocker encrypts your data, making it inaccessible without proper authentication. To activate BitLocker:

• Go to Settings > System > Storage.
• Click on Manage BitLocker.
• Follow the prompts to turn on BitLocker for your drives.

Encrypting your drives adds a layer of security, especially if your device is lost or stolen.
5. Configure Windows Update Settings
Keeping your system updated is vital for security. To ensure automatic updates:

• Open Settings > Windows Update.
• Click on Advanced options.
• Under Pause updates, ensure updates are not paused.
• Under Update notifications, toggle on Show a notification when your PC requires a restart to finish updating.

Regular updates patch vulnerabilities and improve system performance.
6. Set Up a Strong Password and Enable Two-Factor Authentication
A strong password is your first line of defense. To set a robust password:

• Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete and select Change a password.
• Enter a complex password combining letters, numbers, and symbols.

For added security, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your Microsoft account:

• Visit the Microsoft account security page.
• Under Two-step verification, follow the prompts to set up 2FA.

This ensures that even if your password is compromised, unauthorized access is prevented.
By implementing these settings, you significantly enhance the security of your new Windows PC, safeguarding your data and ensuring a safer computing experience.

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Source: Digital Trends https://www.digitaltrends.com/compu...fQBegQICBAC&usg=AOvVaw3k7HZdIxfJTxfQtA47RIVG/