How to Protect Your Windows 11 PC from Viruses

This article explains how to protect your computer from viruses in Windows 11.

When you use Windows, you should take steps to prevent viruses and malware. These harmful programs can damage your computer. They can also let criminals steal your personal information and money.

Why does this matter? A virus can disable your computer or give hackers access to your files and accounts.

There is no single way to protect your computer. Instead, you can take multiple steps. These include installing antivirus software, updating Windows, and downloading software only from trusted sources. All these steps help keep your computer safe.

Below are steps you can follow to help protect your computer from viruses and malware.

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How to protect against viruses and malware in Windows 11

Install Antivirus Software in Windows 11

What is antivirus software? It is your first defense against viruses and malware.

Windows comes with Microsoft Defender. You can use it to protect your computer if you don’t have other antivirus software.

How to install and use Microsoft Defender to protect one’s computer.

Important: Do not run multiple antivirus programs at the same time. This can slow down your computer or make it unstable. If you install another company’s antivirus program, Microsoft Defender will turn off automatically.

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What does SmartScreen do? It protects you from phishing attacks and malware. It warns you before you download infected software or programs from unsafe websites.

How to update a Windows 11 computer

Microsoft Defender SmartScreen shows warning messages to protect you from unsafe websites and malicious software. The SmartScreen filter helps prevent you from downloading and installing malware on your computer.

Make Sure Windows Updates Are Enabled and Update Your Computer

Why are updates important? If your computer doesn’t get regular updates from Microsoft, it will be vulnerable to viruses and malware.

Microsoft releases special security updates to protect your computer. These updates fix security holes and prevent viruses and other malware attacks.

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Windows automatically installs security and feature updates on your computer. You can also install updates manually at any time.

Turn on User Account Control (UAC) in Windows 11

What is UAC? Your Windows computer has two account types: Administrator and local user. When changes require administrator permission, UAC notifies you and asks for approval. UAC also helps stop viruses from making unwanted changes.

How to turn on pop-up blocker in Windows 11

FLAG: Requires Admin Privileges — If UAC is turned off on your computer, turn it on. This prevents viruses and malware from installing unwanted changes.

Turn on the Pop-up Blocker in Windows 11

What are pop-ups? They are small browser windows that appear on top of the website you are viewing. Some pop-ups contain malicious software that tricks you into clicking a link to download harmful code.

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A pop-up blocker stops some or all of these windows from appearing. The pop-up blocker in Microsoft Edge is already turned on by default.

Summary

Protecting your Windows 11 computer from viruses and malware involves several key steps:

• Install Antivirus Software: Use Microsoft Defender or a trusted antivirus program.
• Enable SmartScreen in Microsoft Edge: This protects you from phishing and malware threats.
• Keep Windows Updated: Regular updates close security holes that malware could use.
• Turn on User Account Control (UAC): UAC asks for permission when changes are made, preventing unauthorized changes.
• Use a Pop-up Blocker: Enable pop-up blocking to reduce the risk of downloading malicious software.

By following these steps, you can greatly improve your computer’s security and keep your data safe from malicious attacks.

Frequently Asked Questions