Understanding security and safe computing
In this articleProtect your computer
Manage security settings with Action Center
Use a firewall
Use virus protection
Use spyware protection
Update Windows automatically
Use a standard user account
Tips for safely using e‑mail and the web
If you connect to the Internet, allow other people to use your computer, or share files with others, you should take steps to protect your computer from harm. Why? Because there are computer criminals (sometimes called hackers) who attack other people's computers. These people can attack directly, by breaking into your computer through the Internet and stealing your personal information, or indirectly, by creating malicious software to harm your computer.
Fortunately, you can protect yourself by taking a few simple precautions. This article describes the threats and what you can do to defend against them.
Protect your computer
These are ways to help protect your computer against potential security threats:
Firewall. A firewall can help protect your computer by preventing hackers or malicious software from gaining access to it.
Windows Update. Windows can routinely check for updates for your computer and install them automatically.
Virus protection. Antivirus software can help protect your computer against viruses, worms, and other security threats.
Spyware and other malware protection. Antispyware software can help protect your computer from spyware and other potentially unwanted software.
Manage security settings with Action Center
Action Center manages firewall settings, Windows Update, anti-malware software settings, Internet security, and User Account control settings. Action Center also monitors computer maintenance settings and provides links to troubleshooters and other tools that can help fix problems. For more information about Action Center, see How does Action Center check for problems?
Use a firewall
A firewall is software or hardware that checks information coming from the Internet or a network and then either turns it away or allows it to pass through to your computer, depending on your firewall settings. In this way, a firewall helps prevent hackers and malicious software from gaining access to your computer.
Windows Firewall is built into Windows and is turned on automatically.