7 Tips to Protect Your Laptops and PC Using Windows Default Applications

In this post I am sharing 7 simple tips to protect your laptops and PC using Windows' own default applications — no third-party software needed.

1. Windows Defender

Windows Defender includes a number of real-time security agents that monitor several common areas of Windows for changes that may be made by spyware. It helps prevent viruses, spyware, and other malicious or unwanted software from being installed on your PC without your knowledge.

2. Action Center

Using Action Center you get the main notifications from Windows and messages about your updates. Check Action Center to make sure your firewall is on, your antimalware protection is up to date, and your PC is set to install updates automatically.

3. Windows SmartScreen

Microsoft SmartScreen is a malware filter implemented in several Microsoft products. Windows SmartScreen helps protect your PC by warning you before running unrecognized apps and files downloaded from the Internet.

4. Windows Firewall

Windows Firewall can help prevent hackers and malicious software, such as viruses, from accessing your PC through the Internet. It also helps you control which programs can access the Internet, so using the firewall keeps untrusted programs from connecting or updating on their own.

5. User Account Control

Some virus programs get installed through cracked applications, so make sure you use genuine applications on your PC or laptop. Make User Account Control (UAC) ask for permission before your PC installs software or opens certain kinds of apps that could be potentially harmful or make it vulnerable to security threats.

6. Remove Temporary Files

Go to Start > All Programs > Accessories > Run, type "%temp%" without the quotes and press Enter. Select all the files in the Temp folder and delete them. Now open Run again, type "temp", and delete all the files in that folder too.

7. Download Windows Updates Regularly

This is the most important one — downloading the latest updates will always keep your computer free from bugs and security loopholes.

Do leave your comments below if these tips helped you keep your PC safe!