Detailed Guidelines for Protecting Your Windows Computer

1. Keep Windows Updated

• Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update.

• Turn on automatic updates so your system always installs the latest security patches.

• Updates fix vulnerabilities that hackers often use to attack.

• Example: WannaCry ransomware spread worldwide because people didn’t update Windows.

2. Use Strong Passwords

• Minimum 12 characters recommended.

• Mix upper & lower case letters, numbers, and special characters.

• Do NOT use simple passwords like 123456, password, or your name.

• Use a password manager (like Bitwarden or LastPass) to save and generate secure passwords.

3. Enable Windows Security (Microsoft Defender)

• Open Windows Security → Virus & threat protection.

• Make sure Real-time protection is ON.

• Schedule a weekly full scan to check for malware.

• If you prefer, you can add another trusted antivirus (like Kaspersky, Bitdefender, or Avast), but never use two antivirus programs at the same time.

4. Install Trusted Software Only

• Download programs only from official websites or the Microsoft Store.

• Avoid cracked/pirated software → 90% of them contain hidden malware.

• Before installing, check if the program is well-known and has good reviews.

5. Enable Firewall

• Windows Firewall helps block suspicious connections.

• Check it in Windows Security → Firewall & network protection.

• Keep all network firewalls ON (Domain, Private, Public).

• For advanced users: You can manually block apps from connecting to the internet.

6. Be Careful with Emails and Links

• Hackers often use phishing emails to trick you.

• Do not open email attachments from unknown senders.

• Hover over links before clicking — if the link looks strange, don’t open it.

• Example: If you receive an email that says “Your bank account is locked, click here,” it is usually fake.

7. Back Up Your Data

• Use external hard drives or cloud storage.

• Backup important files weekly.

• In case of ransomware, backup is the only way to recover files.

• Best practice: Keep two backups → one offline (external drive) and one online (cloud).

8. Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

• For Microsoft account, Gmail, Facebook, etc., enable 2FA.

• You will receive a code on your phone or authenticator app when logging in.

• Even if hackers steal your password, they can’t log in without the second code.

9. Lock Your PC

• Always lock your PC when leaving (shortcut: Win + L).

• Use Windows Hello (face recognition, fingerprint, or PIN) if available.

• Set your screen to auto-lock after a few minutes of inactivity.

10. Avoid Public Wi-Fi Without VPN

• Public Wi-Fi in cafes, airports, or malls is not safe.

• Hackers can use “Man-in-the-Middle” attacks to steal passwords.

• If you must use public Wi-Fi:

  • Connect with a VPN service (NordVPN, ExpressVPN, ProtonVPN).

  • Avoid logging into banking or important accounts.

✅ Extra Tips:

• Disable AutoRun for USB drives → prevents viruses from spreading automatically.

• Use a Standard Account (not Administrator) for daily work to reduce risks.

• Regularly clean up temporary files and check startup apps.