7 Expert Tactics for Enhanced Windows Defender Security to Safeguard Your PC
Key Notes
- Enable Controlled Folder Access to thwart ransomware.
- Use Microsoft Defender Application Guard for enhanced browsing security.
- Perform offline scans for stubborn malware detection.
Unlocking Advanced Features of Windows Defender for Enhanced Security
While Windows Defender offers strong built-in protection, many users are unaware of its advanced features that can significantly enhance your PC’s security. This guide walks you through critical settings and tools that will fortify your system against evolving threats, ensuring that personal data remains secure and the integrity of your Windows experience is upheld.
Step 1: Activate Controlled Folder Access
Step 1: Protect Your Data with Controlled Folder Access
Controlled Folder Access acts as a barrier against ransomware and other forms of malware targeting critical data. To enable it:
Open the Windows Security app by typing “windows security” in the Windows Search bar.
Navigate to Virus & threat protection in the left sidebar, and scroll down to click on Manage ransomware protection.
Toggle on Controlled folder access. You can then manage protected folders by clicking on Protected folders.
Pro Tip: Ensure to regularly review and adjust allowed applications to maintain a balance between security and functionality.
Step 2: Enable Microsoft Defender Application Guard
Step 2: Activate Microsoft Defender Application Guard for Secure Browsing
This feature creates a secure virtual environment for Microsoft Edge to protect against online threats.
In the Windows Security app, go to App & browser control and click on Install Microsoft Defender Application Guard.
Enable it in the Windows Features window and restart your PC to complete the installation.
Pro Tip: You may need to adjust some settings afterward to allow necessary features like copy/paste.
Step 3: Execute Windows Defender Offline Scan
Step 3: Conduct an Offline Scan to Detect Hidden Malware
For more comprehensive protection, consider running an offline scan, especially if you suspect malware.
Access Virus & threat protection in the Windows Security app and select Scan options, then choose Microsoft Defender Offline scan and click Scan now.
Pro Tip: Make sure to save any work before starting, as your PC will restart automatically for the scan.
Step 4: Enable Memory Protection with ASLR
Step 4: Force Randomization for Enhanced Security
To mitigate exploitation, enable Force randomization for images (Mandatory ASLR) :
Navigate to App & browser control and click on Exploit protection settings, then set On by default under Mandatory ASLR.
Pro Tip: Watch out for compatibility issues with older software as you implement this change.
Step 5: Run a Targeted Custom Scan
Step 5: Execute a Custom Scan for Specific Areas
Utilize the Custom scan to target suspicious areas of your system.
Within Virus & threat protection, click on Scan options, then select Custom scan and hit Scan now.
Pro Tip: Regularly scan removable storage devices for safety before usage.
Step 6: Activate Core Isolation for Memory Integrity
Step 6: Enable Core Isolation Memory Integrity
Core Isolation protects critical system processes by isolating them from malware threats.
Go to Device security in the Windows Security app, then click on Core isolation details and toggle on Memory integrity.
Pro Tip: Ensure your drivers are up to date if you experience compatibility issues.
Step 7: Manually Submit Potentially Malicious Files
Step 7: Submit Files for Analysis to Enhance Security
To contribute to the Windows Defender community, submit suspicious files for analysis:
Access the Virus & threat protection section, click Manage settings under Virus & threat protection settings, then select Submit a sample manually.
Pro Tip: Once submitted, keep track of your submission’s status on the Microsoft Security Intelligence page.
Additional Tips
- Regularly verify your Windows Defender settings.
- Stay aware of updates to Windows security features.
- Consider employing additional security layers, like a VPN.
Summary
Employing advanced features of Windows Defender, such as Controlled Folder Access and Microsoft Defender Application Guard, significantly strengthens your PC against potential breaches. Combine these proactive measures with regular system scans for optimal security.
Conclusion
By activating these advanced features, you take a crucial step in safeguarding your data and preserving the integrity of your PC. Regularly review and adjust settings to stay ahead of cyber threats, ensuring that your personal information remains protected from emerging security vulnerabilities.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is Controlled Folder Access?
Controlled Folder Access is a feature in Windows Defender that protects specific files and folders from unauthorized changes by ransomware and other malicious software.
How does Microsoft Defender Application Guard improve security?
Microsoft Defender Application Guard runs Microsoft Edge in an isolated environment, which prevents potentially harmful websites from affecting the rest of your system.