Inferse is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Since the release of Windows 1 way back in the tech dark ages of 1985, Microsoft’s Windows operating system has gone on to become the most popular PC platform in the world. According to statistics, more than 74 percent of desktop users run Windows.
In line with this huge market share, there are multiple threats that are designed to specifically target Windows. Why would a threat actor develop a malware program targeting Linux, for example, when they can potentially make a far greater profit targeting Windows users.
Whether it’s social engineering, malware, or ransomware, the number of threats designed for Windows runs the full gamut. Accordingly, protecting your Windows PC in 2021 is pretty important. You don’t want to lose your financial information to theft, have your identity stolen, or face a ransomware attack, after all.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchPC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11With that in mind, here are our top tips to protect your Windows PC in 2021.
Shopping ad
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The Security Key C NFC is the essential physical passkey for protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts.
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single Security Key C NFC secures 100 of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more.
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your Security Key C NFC via USB-C and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC) to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required.
- TRUSTED PASSKEY TECHNOLOGY: Uses the latest passkey standards (FIDO2/WebAuthn & FIDO U2F) but does not support One-Time Passwords. For complex needs, check out the YubiKey 5 Series.
- BUILT TO LAST: Made from tough, waterproof, and crush-resistant materials. Manufactured in Sweden and programmed in the USA with the highest security standards.
Keep Your PC Updated, Always
Updates perform a critical function that affects the overall health of your operating system (OS). Developers release updates to provide patches for any known exploits, vulnerabilities, and bugs. Failing to update your computer is akin to leaving your keys in the front door when you head out; you’re inviting threat actors into your system.
Windows 10 has an automatic update feature, so if you’re running this OS, you shouldn’t need to worry too much. Running an older version of Windows? Install updates when you’re prompted and keep an eye out for available patches.
Shopping ad
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The YubiKey 5 NFC is the most versatile physical passkey, protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with popular accounts like Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single YubiKey 5 NFC secures 100+ of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your YubiKey 5 NFC via USB and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC), to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required
- MOST SECURE PASSKEY: Supports FIDO2/WebAuthn, FIDO U2F, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP/HOTP, Smart card (PIV), and OpenPGP. That means it’s versatile, working almost anywhere you need it
- PRIMARY & SPARE KEYS: Just like having a spare house key, we recommend buying two YubiKeys - one for daily use and one as a spare. That way you’ll never get locked out of your accounts
Avoid Public Wifi Networks
Security researchers have been warning us for years about the dangers of free, open-access WiFi networks. Yet few of us actually heed these warnings. It turns out that we should as open WiFi networks are kind of like the wild west of the digital realm, riddled with nasties at every turn, and there’s a very high chance you’ll get shot.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
If you absolutely have to connect to a free WiFi network, make sure you’re protected with a high-quality, paid VPN service. VPNs encrypt your data traffic and ensure your online browsing is private, therefore allowing you to dodge all the bullets of free WiFi.
Shopping ad
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The YubiKey 5C NFC is the most versatile physical passkey, protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with popular accounts like Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single YubiKey 5C NFC secures 100+ of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your YubiKey 5C NFC via USB and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC), to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required
- MOST SECURE PASSKEY: Supports FIDO2/WebAuthn, FIDO U2F, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP/HOTP, Smart card (PIV), and OpenPGP. That means it’s versatile, working almost anywhere you need it
- PRIMARY & SPARE KEYS: Just like having a spare house key, we recommend buying two YubiKeys - one for daily use and one as a spare. That way you’ll never get locked out of your accounts
Encrypt Your Disks
If you happen to lose your laptop, or worse, it is stolen, a hacker can very easily garner critical information from your device’s hard disk. You can make this significantly harder for them, if not impossible, by encrypting your disks. Windows 10 offers its Bitlocker feature to users with a Pro or Enterprise version of the OS. If you fall into this category, take advantage of this nifty native tool.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Use Antivirus and Antimalware (Yes, You Need Both)
You have two options here: either use Windows’ native tool Windows Defender (a three-in-one antivirus, antimalware, and firewall program) or switch to security tools made by dedicated cybersecurity companies. There are pluses and minuses to each option, for example, Windows Defender is free, but according to research, it does a poor job of detecting certain threats.
Shopping ad
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The Security Key NFC is the essential physical passkey for protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts.
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single Security Key NFC secures 100 of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more.
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your Security Key NFC via USB-A and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC) to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required.
- TRUSTED PASSKEY TECHNOLOGY: Uses the latest passkey standards (FIDO2/WebAuthn & FIDO U2F) but does not support One-Time Passwords. For complex needs, check out the YubiKey 5 Series.
- BUILT TO LAST: Made from tough, waterproof, and crush-resistant materials. Manufactured in Sweden and programmed in the USA with the highest security standards.
PCMag called it “pretty good at most things”, and you can make of that what you will. If you’re serious about security, it’s better to invest in top-notch security tools. Pick up antimalware, antivirus, and while you’re at it, a good password manager. Choose paid options always, if for no other reason than free anti-threat software is now broadly recognized as adware, and will annoy you with its constant, often misleading notifications.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Get serious about your device’s cybersecurity in 2021 and keep your data away from threat actors. Follow the steps above to start getting secure.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
