Microsoft Windows is the most widely used Operating System and also the most venerable to viruses and attacks of all sorts. Luckily for an average user, here are a few simple things that can be done to enhance the security of your Microsoft Windows device:
Install Windows Updates and Antivirus definitions regularly
Automatic updates are enabled by default, but users should also periodically check for updates to ensure their Windows are updated. Windows updates patch the security, performance, compatibility and other issues from time to time. A system regularly updated with security patches is less likely to get infected and attacked. Keeping the virus definitions updated are also very important and most of the antivirus programs also update automatically.
Do most of your work as a standard user and use a strong administrative password
Working as a standard user will deny administrative rights to suspicious programs unless you give them the rights. A strong administrative password can further help tighten the security. A standard account also prevents other users from installing programs on the system and making system-wise changes including driver installations, etc.
Switch your browser and disable add-ons
Internet Explorer has improved a lot over the years as far as security is concerned, but it still remains suspect to most attacks. There are a bunch of cool browsers available, mostly free, like Chrome, Firefox, Opera, etc., that offer better security and features. Some add-ons are also known to steal data and infect systems, so, it is better to use only the add-ons that you really need and come from trusted sources.
Always download from trusted and reputable sources
Most malicious programs come from downloading content through torrents and other illegal software sites. Some of them are not even detectable by the antivirus and some disguise malicious codes inside harmless-looking pictures and pdfs, so, beware of what you download.
Switching the Operating System
If you are a little more than an average user, then, moving to another operating system like Linux should not be that much of a hassle. Gone are the days when Linux was merely a choice of geeks and tech professionals alone. Security wise, Linux is a much better option than Windows and many security companies rely on it worldwide. Linux is now available in many flavors, offering users an easy-to-use interface and able to do most of the things that a user can do on windows, and that too, for free!