Maintaining a secure Windows system is essential to protect your data, privacy, and overall performance. Whether you’re working professionally or using your computer for personal use, a regular security audit helps reduce risks from malware, unauthorized access, and system vulnerabilities.
This guide outlines a complete checklist to help you evaluate and secure your system.
1. Check Windows Security Dashboard
Windows includes a built-in protection suite called Windows Security (formerly Windows Defender). It provides real-time protection against viruses, malware, and threats.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Security → Open Windows Security
- Review the following sections:
- Virus & Threat Protection
- Firewall & Network Protection
- App & Browser Control
- Device Security
Each should display a green checkmark or the message “No actions needed.”
2. Run a Full Malware Scan
Quick scans are not always sufficient. A full system scan checks every file and location.
How to perform a full scan:
- Open Windows Security
- Navigate to Virus & Threat Protection → Scan options
- Select “Full Scan” and click “Scan now”
Optional tools for additional scanning:
- Malwarebytes Free (for advanced malware detection)
- AdwCleaner (for removing adware and browser hijackers)
3. Check for Suspicious User Accounts
Malware or unauthorized users may create hidden or backdoor user accounts. Review the list of local users and administrators.
Commands to run in Command Prompt:
sqlCopyEditnet user
net localgroup Administrators
Verify that only trusted user accounts are listed. Remove or disable unfamiliar accounts.
4. Audit Startup Programs
Unwanted or malicious programs may automatically start with Windows and slow down the system or compromise security.
Steps:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager
- Go to the Startup tab
- Disable unknown or unnecessary programs
5. Review Installed Software
Installed programs should be regularly reviewed to identify potentially unwanted applications (PUAs), malware, or outdated software.
Steps:
- Press Win + R, type
appwiz.cpl, and press Enter - Review the list and uninstall software that you do not recognize or no longer use
6. Check System Integrity with SFC and DISM
System files may become corrupted, impacting performance and security. Use built-in repair tools to restore them.
Commands to run in Command Prompt (as Administrator):
bashCopyEditsfc /scannow
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
These commands scan and repair system file corruption and health issues.
7. Monitor Network Activity
Review open ports and active network connections to detect unauthorized access.
Command to run in Command Prompt:
nginxCopyEditnetstat -anob
Review the output for suspicious connections or unfamiliar processes using internet access.
8. Check for Windows Updates
Ensure your operating system is up to date with the latest security patches and performance improvements.
Steps:
- Go to Settings → Windows Update
- Click “Check for updates”
- Install all available security and feature updates
9. Secure Login and Remote Access Settings
Account-level settings can enhance your device’s protection from unauthorized access.
Recommended actions:
- Use a strong login password or PIN
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your Microsoft account
- Disable Remote Desktop if not required:
- Go to Settings → System → Remote Desktop → Turn off
10. Enable BitLocker Drive Encryption (Windows Pro Only)
BitLocker protects your data by encrypting your hard drive, making it unreadable without your credentials.
Steps:
- Go to Control Panel → BitLocker Drive Encryption
- Turn on BitLocker for the system drive
Note: This feature is only available in Windows Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions.
11. Enable BIOS/UEFI Security Features
Hardware-level security helps prevent boot-time attacks and unauthorized changes.
Recommendations:
- Enable Secure Boot in BIOS/UEFI settings
- Set a BIOS/UEFI password
- Disable USB boot options if not required
To access BIOS/UEFI, restart your PC and press the manufacturer’s key (commonly F2, Del, or Esc).
12. Backup Important Data
Data backup is critical to prevent data loss from ransomware, hardware failure, or accidental deletion.
Backup options:
- Use File History to back up files to an external drive
- Create full system images periodically
- Store important files on secure cloud services like OneDrive or Google Drive
Conclusion
System security is an ongoing process, not a one-time task. Following this checklist regularly helps identify vulnerabilities and keeps your system running safely and efficiently. Schedule monthly security audits to stay ahead of potential threats.
If you require a downloadable version of this checklist for internal use or training, you can request a printable PDF version.
