Since we spend most of our daily lives online, it’s essential to have some sort of protection in place to protect our computers safe from dangers such as malware, viruses, and spyware. After all, they can infect your system in many different ways (often without your knowledge), causing your valuable data to get destroyed or stolen in the process.
In today’s highly digital world, cyber-attacks and malware have become ubiquitous. No longer are there a few malicious programs like viruses. Powerful and new malware variants such as ransomware, keyloggers, and more continue to wreak havoc for businesses and individuals alike, which is why the security of your PC can’t be taken lightly.
Microsoft includes built-in protection tools to secure your PC from all kinds of nasties, but are they enough to keep your device clean and threat-free? Read on, as we explain what both of these tools have to offer and how you can make the best use of them by pairing them with certain types of security software.
Without further ado, let’s get started:
Built-in Protection Tools in Windows 10
Windows 10 offers two main security features at the moment to protect your computer. Both of them are integrated into the OS, so they don’t consume any additional resources and work in an efficient manner.
These include:
Windows Defender Antivirus
Windows Defender Antivirus is an antivirus solution that’s just as good as any other security software on the market, and probably more easy-to-use for novices. There aren’t any annoying popups or invasive toolbars telling you to upgrade to the “Pro” version either.
It automatically runs in the background and scans programs when they’re opened using the latest definitions. You also have an interface available to conduct in-depth scans. The best part of all, it doesn’t slow down your PC and stays out of your way for the most part, unlike other anti-viruses.
However, Windows Defender Antivirus works best when coupled with a robust anti-malware program (more on that in a bit).
Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security
A management snap-in for the Windows Firewall, Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security prevents unauthorized access by filtering the network traffic allowed to enter or exit your computer through the Internet or a network.
This is where you’ll find all the rules and exceptions for the Windows Firewall, which can be configured as per your needs to govern how the firewall works. You’re going to encounter three types of rules, including Inbound Rules, Outbound Rules, and Connection Security.
That said, Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security doesn’t secure your connection from intruders (only your computer) and this is where a VPN comes in handy.
Why You Need Additional Protection?
Your Windows PC requires additional protection because:
Antivirus Isn’t Enough, Anti-Malware is Necessary Too
Undoubtedly, using an antivirus is important. These days, however, web browsers and plug-ins are popular targets for hackers. That’s why it’s crucial to use a good anti-malware software (like Malwarebytes) with your anti-virus to stay protected against different types of malware and zero-day exploits attacks.
It’s good at detecting PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) and other junkware. Plus, you have an anti-exploit option which blocks common exploits in programs, even if they’re never-seen-before zero-day attacks. There’s also anti-ransomware available to prevent extortion attacks such as WannaCry or CryptoLocker.
A Firewall Secures Your Computer, Not Your Connection
As mentioned earlier, a firewall alone won’t keep you 100% secure. While you’ll be able to stop cybercriminals and malicious files from compromising your PC, your connection on the Internet would still be unprotected. Using a VPN for Windows PC (like PureVPN) alongside your firewall will make it difficult for the bad guys to intercept your traffic and steal your personal data.
It offers one of the most extension networks, with 2000+ servers and 300,000+ IPs in 140+ countries. Military-grade encryption is used to safeguard your data, which is useful if you regularly use pubic Wi-Fi networks. There other features as well that make your online experience safer and more convenient including kill switch, spilt tunneling, as well as DNS, IPv6, & WebRTC leak protection.
Wrapping Things Up
If you want your Windows PC to be as secure as possible, you should use the built-in protection tools in conjunction with a good VPN and anti-malware program. It’s the best way to make sure that your computer and personal data is adequately protected at all times.
Remember, there’s no “one size fits all” approach to your security problems and believing so will only lead to more problems in the future. It may make an ideal marketing messaging, but in reality it’s close to impossible for one vendor can develop such an all-encompassing security solution.
What tools/software do you use to keep your Windows computer safe from online threats and cyber-criminals? Let us know!
Author Bio
Yasir Shamim is an up and coming Digital Marketer currently working as an Executive at PureVPN with the aim of increasing their search engine visibility. Digital Marketer by day and Tech Fanatic by night, he enjoys reading up about cyber security and technology in general and also loves to share his opinions.
