Windows 11 is the latest operating system from Microsoft that offers many new features and performance improvements. However, in addition to that, Windows 11 also has some security settings that can help you protect your data and privacy from online threats. In this article, we will discuss the best security settings in Windows 11 that you should know and enable.
1] Make sure your Windows 11 is always up to date
One important step to keeping your operating system secure is to make sure that you always install the latest updates available. Windows 11 updates not only bring new features and bug fixes but also fix security holes that hackers or malware might exploit. To check for and install Windows 11 updates, follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app by pressing the Windows key + I on your keyboard.
- Select the Windows Update section in the left menu.
- Click the Check for updates button in the right pane.
- If there is an update available, click the Download and Install button to start the process.
- Once the update has finished downloading and installing, you may need to restart your computer to complete the process.
You can also set active hours to prevent Windows 11 from automatically restarting your computer while you’re at work. To do this, click the Advanced options link under the Check for updates button, and then slide the Active hours switch to the On position. Then, choose a time range that suits your work schedule.
2] Enable Windows Hello for Passwordless Login
Windows Hello is a security feature that allows you to log into your Windows 11 computer without using a password. Instead, you can use facial recognition, fingerprint, or PIN to unlock your device. This feature is not only more convenient but also more secure, as it reduces the risk of theft or forgetting passwords. To enable Windows Hello, follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app by pressing the Windows key + I on your keyboard.
- Select the Account section in the left menu.
- Click the Sign-in options option in the right pane.
- Under the Windows Hello section, select the sign-in method you want to use,such as Face recognition, Fingerprint, or PIN.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your selected sign-in method.
Once you enable Windows Hello, you can log in to your Windows 11 computer quickly and easily by using the camera, fingerprint sensor, or PIN.
3] Enable BitLocker to Encrypt Your Data
BitLocker is a security feature that allows you to encrypt data on your hard disk drive or USB flash drive. By encrypting your data, you can protect it from unauthorized access if your device is lost or stolen. BitLocker can also prevent malware or hackers from altering or corrupting your data. To enable BitLocker, follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app by pressing the Windows key + I on your keyboard.
- Select the Privacy & Security section in the left menu.
- Click the Encrypt device optionin the right pane.
- Under the BitLocker Encryption section, click the Manage BitLocker button to open the BitLocker control panel.
- Select the drive you want to encrypt, and then click the Turn on BitLocker button.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the encryption process.
Once you enable BitLocker, you’ll need to enter a password or recovery key to access your data every time you restart your computer or insert an encrypted USB flash drive.