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14 Must-Know Windows 11 Security and Privacy Settings

8/12/2024

14 Must-Know Windows 11 Security and Privacy Settings

While Windows 11 offers a great deal of security, it also includes many features that monitor your computer usage to expose you to personalized advertising. Fortunately, you can adjust these settings to increase both the security and privacy of your computer. Let’s dive into the essential tips:

1. Enable Secure Boot

Secure Boot ensures that only trusted software runs during startup, protecting your system from unauthorized code. To enable it:

  • Go to Settings > System > Advanced > UEFI Firmware Settings.
  • Enable Secure Boot.

2. Set Up Windows Hello

Windows Hello provides secure and convenient authentication methods, such as facial recognition or fingerprint scanning. To set it up:

  • Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
  • Set up Windows Hello.

3. Use a PIN Instead of a Password

A PIN is more secure than a traditional password. To create a PIN:

  • Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
  • Click Add under PIN.

4. Control App Permissions

Review and manage app permissions to protect your privacy. Go to Settings > Privacy and adjust permissions for each app.

5. Manage Location Services

Limit which apps can access your location:

  • Go to Settings > Privacy > Location.
  • Toggle off apps you don’t want to track your location.

6. Secure Your Webcam and Microphone

Prevent unauthorized access to your webcam and microphone:

  • Go to Settings > Privacy > Camera or Microphone.
  • Disable access for specific apps.

7. Check App Permissions for Files and Documents

Control which apps can access your files and documents:

  • Go to Settings > Privacy > Files and Documents.
  • Adjust permissions accordingly.

8. Use Windows Defender Antivirus

Windows Defender provides real-time protection against malware. Ensure it’s enabled:

  • Go to Settings > Privacy > Virus & threat protection.
  • Enable Real-time protection.

9. Encrypt Your Drives

BitLocker encrypts your drives to prevent unauthorized access:

  • Search for BitLocker in the Start menu.
  • Follow the prompts to enable encryption.

10. Limit Advertising Tracking

Go to Settings > Privacy > Activity history and disable Let Windows collect my activities.

11. Review App Permissions for Microsoft Store Apps

Check and adjust permissions for apps downloaded from the Microsoft Store:

  • Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
  • Select an app and click Advanced options.

12. Control Diagnostic Data

Choose the level of diagnostic data you share with Microsoft:

  • Go to Settings > Privacy > Diagnostics & feedback.
  • Select Basic or Enhanced.

13. Manage Clipboard History

Go to Settings > System > Clipboard and disable Clipboard history if you don’t need it.

14. Regularly Update Windows

Keep your system secure by installing updates promptly:

  • Go to Settings > Windows Update.
  • Click Check for updates.

Remember, these settings empower you to enhance both security and privacy on your Windows 11 system. Stay safe out there! 🛡️🔒