Personal Computer Security Guide for Windows

Questions

  • How do I keep my Windows computer secure?
  • What are the most important steps to protect my computer from viruses and malware?
  • How do I turn on automatic updates for Windows and my web browser?
  • How do I turn on Windows Security and the firewall?
  • How do I lock my computer screen?
  • How do I set my computer to lock automatically when the screen saver starts?

Environment

This article applies to Bowdoin students, faculty, and staff using Windows 11. It describes recommended steps to protect a personal or Bowdoin-issued computer from viruses, malware, and unauthorized access. The steps are grouped from most important to good practice.

Resolution

Apply software updates

Enable automatic updates on your computer and web browsers to keep your system secure and up to date.

  • Turn on automatic updates for Windows itself (see Windows update instructions in the Additional Resources section below).
  • If you do not use Microsoft Edge, turn on automatic updates in your browser as well, such as Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox (see the Additional Resources section for vendor instructions).

Prevent unauthorized access

  1. Open Windows Security by selecting Start > Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security.
  2. Enable Windows Defender antivirus and the Firewall & network protection.

Use strong passwords or passphrases

Follow Bowdoin's guidance to create a strong password for you and your computer. See Create a Strong Password in the Related Articles section.

Lock your computer screen

  • Lock your screen at any time by pressing Windows + L, or by pressing Ctrl + Alt + Delete and choosing Lock.
  • To lock automatically when the screen saver starts, open Settings, search for Change screen saver, and check the box for On resume, display logon screen.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

  • Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
  • Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
  • In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
  • Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.

Additional Resources

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