Windows 10 is probably the safest version of Windows. But this is not enough. Each time Microsoft is releasing a new version of its operating system they claim its better and safer. But every time vulnerabilities are found and crackers are exploiting those vulnerabilities. Sometimes you may even help a hacker without knowing. He will take advantage of your curiosity and your bad security habits. Its not just about Windows or your operating system anymore. Lets now see the best security settings and practices to minimize the danger and even to protect your privacy and your on line anonymity as much as possible.
You are the weakest link in the chain
The most important thing that you have to do is to become serious about security because you are the weakest link or any others that use your computer.
Even if you are cautious, your operating system might be compromised because another user was careless. So it would be nice to create another user account with less privileges and even to add another user account for yourself. A user with less privileges means less or even no exposure to malicious attacks because he can not install new programs or access / change system settings. Use the administrator's account when it is absolutely necessary.
Keep your Windows updated and apply all new security patches as soon as you can. You must do the same thing for all third party software that you use. Uninstall all the applications that you don't need. It's easier to examine a system with fewer applications and safer to run less services.
Do no not use http. Prefer the use of the https protocol when you surf the web. Download and install Mozilla Firefox or the Chrome browser. Firefox has an https only mode. You can also install an add-on like https everywhere to force the use of encryption. Chrome and Firefox have many other add-ons to block pop annoying ups, user tracking and malicious scripts. Experiment with them. Another security risk from your web browser is Adobe flash. Uninstall it.
Do not use public wi fi spots. And if you do, use https. The use of VPN (virtual private network) is also a good idea not only for security reasons but for your anonymity too. A VPN will encrypt your traffic and will replace your IP with another. That means that hackers can not steal your passwords and websites can not track your activity. If you can't afford to pay for a VPN and you wish to stay anonymous use the Tor network and use their portable version of Firefox.
Use an antivirus / antispyware program. There are some free ones (Panda, Avira etc) but remember to update the virus definitions. Antivirus companies nowadays offer and all to one solution. Their security suites not only offer antivirus protection but also a firewall, a VPN etc. You can also enable controled folder access.
Do not visit websites that provide free and cracked versions of popular programs. These sites or the programs they offer may contain viruses, trojans, keyloggers. Even their security applications can be harmful. Learn to think like an attacker. Download third party applications only from trusted sources or the use of open source software.
Use strong passwords that contain letter, symbols and numbers and they are at least 8 characters long. Changing your password every few months is a good practice. And never use the same password for every account.
Do not open links, JPEG files and e-mail attachments from unknown senders and even be cautious with people that you know and trust. A good idea is to check the email headers. Email headers will show you the real sender of a message. There are many data breaches the last years. To see if your email account or other on line accounts of yours have been compromised have a look here.All you have to do is to enter your email and the online app will show you if you have a problem. If you do, change your passwords. Another option is to use a password manager tool and learn how to use the Sandbox tool.
Back up your files to an external disk and to an online backup service. Remember to divide your hard disk to two separate partitions and encrypt your important data to the second partition. If you have Windows 10 Professional, Enterprise or Education learn how to use Bitlocker. The application will create a copy of your encryption key. For maximum security keep that key on a separate USB flash drive.
Even more security
These were some of the best Windows 10 security practices and settings. For Maximum Security the best practise is to stop using Windows and install Linux. Distributions like Linux Mint are not only secure but also user friendly. If you are really serious then you can use an operating system like OpenBSD that is built secure from scratch.
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