However, there are a lot of third-party security solutions that you can use.
The Windows 10 built-in malware solution should be more than enough protection for most users. If you want even more protection, it's also possible to change the Windows Defender Antivirus cloud-protection level on Windows 10. Out-of-the-box Windows 10 includes the Windows Defender Antivirus, part of the Windows Defender Security Center, and it offers excellent real-time protection from viruses, ransomware, spyware, worms, rootkits, and Trojans. You must keep it up to date to stay protected against the latest threats, including viruses, worms, ransomware, and other malicious code.
However, it's not a piece of software that you install once and never think about again. Use antivirusĪntivirus is a must-have component on every computer to detect and remove malware before they can compromise your files, affect performance, or crash your device. The Spring Creators Update (version 1803) is expected to roll out in April 2018. It's worth noting that at the time of this writing the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update (version 1709) is the latest version. If it reads version 1709, then you're running the Fall Creators Update. Quick Tip: To find out which version of Windows 10 your PC is running, use the Windows key + R key combo, type winver, and click OK.
However, if you're still not running the latest version, there are multiple ways to upgrade manually, including using Windows Update, Update Assistant, and Media Creation Tool, which allows you to perform an in-place upgrade as well as perform a clean install of the latest version. Similar to those updates you get every month, new versions of Windows 10 are available free of charge, and they usually download an install automatically. If you want to keep your device protected against malware, you always want to be running the latest version. Windows 10 was originally launched in 2015, and since then, Microsoft has released multiple feature updates adding new features and changes to improve performance, productivity, and more importantly, the company has been implementing many security enhancements. Upgrade to the latest version of Windows 10īecause your device is running Windows 10, it doesn't necessarily mean that it's using the latest version. Always check the software company's support website to download and update your programs. However, classic desktop applications will not (in most cases) because they have different update mechanisms.
On Windows 10, apps you acquire from the Microsoft Store will update automatically as soon as a new version becomes available. Perhaps the single most important step you can take to keep your device and data safe and secure is to maintain Windows 10 and programs always updated.Īlthough updates download and install automatically on Windows 10, you can always make sure that your system has the latest patches installed on Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, and clicking the Check for updates button.Īlso, it's important to periodically check and install updates for any software installed on your computer. Upgrade to the latest version of Windows 10 In this Windows 10 guide, we'll walk you through nine tips to keep your desktop, laptop, or tablet and data protected against virtually every type of malware, including viruses, ransomware, worms, Trojans, spyware, adware, and other malicious programs.
It's a combination of software and knowing how to avoid potential threats. However, protecting your system and files isn't just about installing a security app and hoping for the best. Thankfully, you have a lot of tools to fight back all sort of malware, many of which come built into Windows 10. Although malware come in many forms, one thing is certain you don't want one inside your computer.