How to Enable Windows 10 Security Features for Better Protection

Protecting personal information is crucial nowadays due to the growing threat made by hackers. Fortunately, Windows 10 is an innovative operating system, but its security ultimately depends on its users.

Thankfully, Windows 10 comes with built-in security features that can help users to distance themselves from hackers. Some individuals are aware of, and some are not, the existing features of this and have chosen not to use them.

Nowadays, it’s essential to understand the significance of protecting your computer by using Windows Security. Catastrophic effects, such as data loss, privacy breaches, and identity theft, may emerge from exposure to virtual threats.

Now, let’s examine the Windows 10 security features that help enhance security and protect your devices from hackers.

Table of Contents

Why You Need to Secure Your Windows 10 Device

Before jumping to the main topic, let’s examine the significance of these features.

Unpatched or unsecured computers are often the primary targets of cybercriminals. Malware can encrypt your data, spy on your activity, and hijack your login credentials.

If you use your computer at work, for online shopping, banking, or storing personal information, you are a target. Enabling Windows 10 security features allows you to add multiple layers of protection to your home, including alarms, cameras, and door locks.

Ways to Keep Yourself Safe with Windows Security

Set Up User Account Control

The UAC or User Account Control interface is displayed when a program attempts to modify your device. Numerous harmful applications exploit changes to your settings to compromise your security. The UAC assures that it will not happen.

The Unauthorized Access Control (UAC) feature temporarily blocks your screen if an application attempts to modify your computer’s configuration. The lock is removed after an administrator authorizes the change. Before allowing the program to make changes to your system, verify its specifications and conduct some research.

Here’s how to enable and configure User Account Control:

To open the search bar, press the Windows Key and the S key at the same time. You can also use the search bar on the taskbar.
Press User Account Control to start searching.
In the search results, select the “Modify User Control” setting link.
To activate UAC, set the scale to the desired level of security for your computer, and then click
Slide the bar. Never ask to turn off UAC, then click OK. (Not a good idea).
To verify, provide the main password if prompted.
Rebooting your device ensures that the changes have been applied.

Activate Windows Defender

Windows Defender is the pre-installed Windows Security software in Windows 10, specifically designed to block the installation of malware and other malicious threats.

It operates as a built-in antivirus for your safety while downloading, receiving, or browsing the internet. It can regularly scan your device, review your data, and even detect potentially harmful apps or hidden infections.

Instead of slowing down your computer like other antivirus programs do, Windows Defender provides real-time protection.

Here’s how to activate Windows Defender and protect your computer:

Choose the Start button on the taskbar. The Windows 10 logo appears on this icon.
Select the Settings icon. You can also use the Windows key + I shortcut to open this program quickly.
Click Security Tile and Update.
Select the Windows Security tab, then click the “Open Windows Security” button.
To adjust your settings, click any of the tiles below. After making the changes, restart your device to finish the process.

Activate Windows Firewall.

The goal of the Windows Firewall is to ensure the security of both network and Internet connection.

Here’s how to activate a firewall and secure devices against additional risks.

Clicking the Windows key and the S key simultaneously will bring up the search bar; alternatively, you can use the taskbar search area.
Search Control Panel and then select.
Ensure that you choose whether to display Large or Small Icons when it appears.
Click on Windows Defender Firewall. In the new window’s left panel, click the “Turn Windows Firewall on and off” option. To confirm your selection, please enter your Windows 10 admin password when prompted.
Ensure that ‘Turn on Windows Defender Firewall‘ is enabled in both the Private and Public network settings. When you’re done, select OK.

Turn Microsoft Defender Antivirus on and off.

It is necessary to disable and then re-enable Windows Defender on occasion temporarily. With real-time protection off, however, any files you view or download will not be scanned for malware or other potential dangers. But eventually, real-time protection will automatically safeguard your device.

To turn off Microsoft Defender antivirus:

Choose Start. Select Settings, then Security and Updates, and lastly, choose Windows Security.
After you click on Windows Security, select Virus and Threat Protection. Control the settings, then navigate to the Windows Security settings.
Turn off real-time protection and select ‘Yes’ to confirm.

Enable Windows SmartScreen

Windows SmartScreen will shut down your device if it detects suspicious behavior during the activation of a file or program. Unless you provide your approval or cancel the action, this will remain in effect.

Unless you are sure that accessing a potentially harmful file will not harm your device, it is best practice to permanently shut down your device before opening it.

To activate Windows SmartScreen, follow this:

On the taskbar, select the Start button.
The image that looks like a gear should be chosen. On the other hand, the Windows + I button trick will get you to this app faster.
Type “SmartScreen” into the search box, then choose “App and Browser Control” to instantly view the right page in the Windows Security program.
Any options related to SmartScreen can be changed to On, Block, or Warn.
To finish making the changes, restart your device.

Final Thoughts

Windows 10 comes with a complete set of features that help protect your private data and device, but it is essential to ensure that these capabilities are active. Spending time now configuring these components creates a strong, multilayered defense mechanism that protects your online presence.

Even better still? There is no need to install external software or pay any money. Microsoft has already provided you with everything you need; it’s just a case of turning them on.

Therefore, proceed to activate these security features in Windows 10 today. Your files and future self will appreciate your efforts.

AUTHOR:

Jennysis Lajom has been a content writer for years. Her passion for digital marketing led her to a career in content writing, graphic design, editing, and social media marketing. She is also one of the resident SEO writers from Softvire, a leading IT distributor. Follow her at Softvire Global Market now!