When setting up a new Windows 11 PC, it's tempting to dive straight into personalization—installing favorite apps, tweaking the wallpaper, and adjusting system themes. However, prioritizing security settings from the outset is crucial to safeguard your data and privacy. This comprehensive guide outlines essential security configurations to implement during your initial setup.

1. Install a Trusted Antivirus Solution

While Windows 11 comes equipped with Microsoft Defender Antivirus, many users opt for third-party solutions to enhance protection. Premium antivirus programs like ESET, Bitdefender, Norton, or Kaspersky offer comprehensive features, including real-time scanning for viruses, ransomware, and malware, protection against unsafe websites and phishing attempts, and additional tools like safe banking environments. Investing in a reputable antivirus solution provides peace of mind and robust defenses against evolving cyber threats. (windowsforum.com)

2. Disable Passwordless Sign-In for Stronger Access Control

Windows 11 promotes passwordless sign-in methods, such as Windows Hello biometrics (fingerprint or facial recognition) and PINs, for convenience. However, relying solely on these methods without a strong password introduces significant security risks, especially if your device is lost or stolen. It's advisable to set a complex, strong password as your primary authentication method and use biometrics or PINs as secondary, faster methods. This layered approach ensures that unauthorized individuals cannot easily access your files if they gain physical possession of your laptop. (windowsforum.com)

3. Review and Manage App Permissions to Protect Your Privacy

Modern Windows 11 apps often request access to sensitive features such as your microphone, camera, and location. However, many apps request more permissions than they actually need, which can lead to unnecessary data exposure and privacy compromises. After installing your essentials, navigate to Settings > Privacy & Security > App Permissions and review which applications have access to sensitive hardware or information. Revoke permissions that seem excessive or unjustified—especially for apps that do not have clear reasons for needing a particular permission. This simple step helps minimize the number of apps potentially collecting personal data or running tasks in the background without your knowledge. (windowsforum.com)

4. Turn Off Optional Diagnostic Data Collection

Windows 11 collects diagnostic and feedback data to help Microsoft improve the OS through bug fixes and feature enhancements. By default, this includes both basic system information and optional, more detailed telemetry such as browsing habits, app usage patterns, and device activity. Privacy-conscious users should consider disabling the collection of optional diagnostic data. To do this, open Settings > Privacy & Security > Diagnostics & Feedback and switch off optional diagnostic data reporting. Doing so limits the data sent to Microsoft to the essentials necessary for system updates and security patches. While disabling this telemetry might marginally reduce the personalization or troubleshooting assistance provided by Microsoft, it greatly enhances your privacy. (windowsforum.com)

5. Enable BitLocker Drive Encryption for Data Protection

BitLocker is a full-disk encryption tool available in Windows 11 Pro and higher editions. Enabling BitLocker encrypts your entire drive, ensuring that if your device is lost or stolen, data stored on the hard drive cannot be accessed by merely connecting the drive to another machine. Activating BitLocker can be done through Settings > Privacy & Security > under Related Settings, select BitLocker Drive Encryption. Once enabled, make sure to securely back up your BitLocker recovery key. Losing this key can lock you out of your own data permanently. BitLocker not only thwarts physical data theft but also raises the bar against malware and ransomware attempts that try to access your files. (windowsforum.com)

6. Additional Security Best Practices

Beyond the essentials, consider implementing the following practices to further enhance your PC's security:

  • Keep Windows and Applications Updated: Regular updates patch vulnerabilities that attackers seek to exploit.
  • Configure Firewall Settings: Ensure Windows Defender Firewall is enabled and properly configured to block unauthorized network traffic.
  • Use Strong User Account Control (UAC) Settings: UAC helps prevent unauthorized changes by requiring administrative approval.
  • Secure Your Web Browser: Adjust browser privacy settings, clear browsing data routinely, and verify extensions to reduce exposure to online threats.
  • Harden Your Wi-Fi Network: Change default router passwords, enable WPA3 encryption if supported, and keep router firmware current.

By taking these steps, you establish a robust security foundation for your new Windows 11 PC, ensuring your data and privacy are well-protected from the outset.