4] Enable Windows Firewall to Block Network Attacks
The Windows firewall is a security feature that helps prevent hackers or malicious software from accessing your computer over the internet or a network. The Windows firewall can also help you control which applications can send or receive data over the network. To enable Windows Firewall, 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 Windows Security optionin the right pane.
- Click the Open Windows Security buttonto open the Windows Security app.
- Select the Network & Internet Protection menuon the left side.
- Click the Firewall &; network protection optionon the right side.
- Under the Firewall status section, make sure that the firewall is on for all network types, such as Domain network, Private network, and Public network.
You can also click the Allow apps through the firewall link to manage which apps can communicate through the firewall. You can add or remove apps from the list, or change settings for individual apps.
5] Enable Defender SmartScreen to Prevent Malicious Websites and Apps
Defender SmartScreen is a security feature that helps protect you from malicious websites and apps that could try to steal your personal information or damage your computer. Defender SmartScreen works by checking the reputation of websites and apps you visit or download and alerts you if anything is suspicious or unknown. To enable Defender SmartScreen, 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 Windows Security optionin the right pane.
- Click the Open Windows Security buttonto open the Windows Security app.
- Select the App & Browser Protection menuon the left side.
- Click the App Reputation & File Control optionon the right side.
- Under the Defender SmartScreen section, make sure that all options are active, such as Check apps and files, Check Microsoft Edge, and Check Microsoft Store apps.
You can also click Defender SmartScreen’s Advanced settings link to manage other settings, such as blocking high-risk downloads or providing feedback on Defender SmartScreen alerts.
6] Enable Tamper Protection to Prevent Changes to Security Settings
Tamper Protection is a security feature that helps prevent malware or hackers from changing important security settings on your Windows 11 computer. By enabling this feature, you can ensure that built-in antivirus, real-time protection, cloud protection, and automatic updates remain on and cannot be turned off by unauthorized parties. To enable Tamper Protection, 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 Windows Security option in the right pane.
- Click the Open Windows Security buttonto open the Windows Security app.
- Select the Virus & Threat Protection menuon the left side.
- Click the Virus & Threat Protection settings optionon the right side.
- Scroll down until you find the Tamper Protection section, then slide the switch to the On position.
Once you turn on Tamper Protection, you’ll see a lock icon next to the options protected by this feature. You can’t change this option unless you turn off Tamper Protection first.