Although Windows 10 reached the end of free support in October 2025, that doesn’t mean your PC is suddenly unsafe to use. Enroll in Extended Security Updates (ESU) to get security updates till October 2027, and by following essential security practices, you can continue using Windows 10 safely in 2026. In this guide, you’ll learn eight practical steps to secure Windows 10 and protect your PC from AI-powered phishing attacks, malware, and other modern security threats.
Why Windows 10 Needs Extra Protection in 2026
Installing the latest Windows security updates is an important first step, but it’s only one part of keeping your PC secure. Most successful cyberattacks don’t happen because Windows itself is vulnerable they happen because attackers exploit weak passwords, outdated applications, phishing scams, or unsafe browsing habits.
Even if your Windows 10 PC is receiving Extended Security Updates (ESU), those updates mainly fix newly discovered security vulnerabilities in the operating system. They can’t stop someone from clicking a fake login page, downloading malware disguised as legitimate software, or reusing a password that has already been exposed in a data breach.
However, you don’t need advanced technical skills or expensive security software to stay protected. By enabling Windows’ built-in security features, keeping your software updated, and following a few safe online habits, you can significantly reduce your risk of malware, ransomware, phishing attacks, and other common threats.
1. Configure Microsoft Defender for Maximum Protection
Microsoft Defender is the first line of defense against malware and other security threats on Windows 10. Over the years, Microsoft has significantly improved its built-in antivirus, and for most home users, it provides strong protection without the need for third-party antivirus software. However, to get the best protection, it’s important to verify that its key security features are enabled.
To review your Defender settings, open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security, then click Virus & threat protection.
Check that the following security features are turned on:
- Real-time protection: Scans files, apps, and downloads as they’re opened or executed to block known threats before they can infect your PC.
- Cloud-delivered protection: Uses Microsoft’s cloud-based threat intelligence to detect newly discovered malware faster than traditional virus definitions, helping protect your PC against emerging threats. This helps protect your computer from emerging threats.
- Automatic sample submission: Allows Microsoft to analyze suspicious files and improve malware detection. If a file is identified as malicious, updated protection can be delivered to other Windows devices more quickly.
- Tamper Protection: Prevents malware and unauthorized users from disabling Microsoft Defender or changing its security settings without your permission.
- Ransomware protection (Controlled Folder Access): This optional feature blocks untrusted applications from modifying files in protected folders such as Documents, Pictures, and Desktop. If you enable it, review the list of blocked apps and allow trusted programs that need access to your files.
Even with real-time protection enabled, it’s a good habit to run a Quick Scan regularly and perform a Full Scan whenever you suspect malware or after downloading software from an unfamiliar source.
2. Keep Windows Firewall Enabled
Microsoft Defender Firewall adds an important layer of protection by monitoring network traffic to and from your PC. It helps block unauthorized connections that hackers, malware, or suspicious applications may use to access your computer. Unless you’re using another trusted firewall solution, it’s best to keep Microsoft Defender Firewall enabled at all times.
To check your firewall settings, open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Firewall & network protection.
To get the most protection from Windows Firewall, follow these best practices:
- Keep the firewall enabled for all network profiles. Make sure Domain, Private, and Public networks all show Microsoft Defender Firewall is on.
- Use the Public network profile on public Wi-Fi. When connecting to Wi-Fi at airports, hotels, cafés, or other public places, choose the Public network profile to make your PC less discoverable to other devices.
- Don’t disable the firewall to troubleshoot connection problems. If an application can’t access the internet, allow that specific app through the firewall instead of turning the firewall off completely. Disabling the firewall leaves your PC exposed to unnecessary security risks.
- Review allowed apps periodically. Remove permissions for apps you no longer use or recognize. This helps reduce unnecessary network access and lowers your overall security risk.
- Avoid running multiple software firewalls. If you install a third-party security suite with its own firewall, don’t run two software firewalls simultaneously, as this can cause conflicts.
3. Use Strong Passwords and Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Your Windows 10 PC is only as secure as the accounts you use to sign in. Even if your computer is well protected, a weak or reused password can give attackers access to your email, cloud storage, banking, or social media accounts. Creating strong, unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) are two of the most effective ways to protect your personal information.
Follow these best practices to better secure your online accounts:
- Create a unique password for every account. Never reuse the same password across multiple websites or services.
- Use a password manager. Remembering dozens of unique passwords isn’t realistic. A password manager can generate strong passwords, store them securely, and automatically fill them in when you sign in to websites and apps.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA). Turn on 2FA wherever it’s available, especially for your Microsoft account, email, banking, and other important accounts. Even if someone discovers your password, they won’t be able to sign in without the second verification step.
- Use Windows Hello if your PC supports it. Signing in with a PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition is faster than entering a password and provides an additional layer of protection for your device.
- Never share one-time verification codes. Microsoft, banks, and legitimate companies will never ask you to share authentication codes over the phone, email, or text message.
Strong passwords, unique credentials for every account, and two-factor authentication work together to protect your online accounts. Even if one password is compromised in a data breach, these additional security measures make it much more difficult for attackers to gain access.
4. Download Software Only from Trusted Sources
Downloading software from an untrusted website is one of the easiest ways to infect your PC with malware. Cybercriminals often disguise malware as free software, game mods, cracked applications, or fake software updates. Downloading programs only from trusted sources greatly reduces the risk of infecting your computer with malware or other unwanted software.
Before installing any program, follow these security best practices:
- Download software from official sources. Whenever possible, download applications from the developer’s official website or the Microsoft Store. This reduces the risk of downloading modified installers or software bundled with unwanted programs.
- Avoid cracked or pirated software. Software cracks, activators, and key generators are a common source of malware, ransomware, cryptocurrency miners, and other unwanted programs.
- Verify the publisher before installing. If Windows displays a User Account Control (UAC) prompt, check that the publisher matches the software developer. Be cautious of installers that display Unknown Publisher, especially if they come from unfamiliar websites.
- Scan downloaded files before opening them. Right-click the installer and scan it with Microsoft Defender. If you’re still unsure, upload the file to VirusTotal to check it with multiple antivirus engines.
- Watch for bundled software. During installation, choose Custom or Advanced setup when available and deselect any unwanted toolbars, browser extensions, or additional applications.
- Watch out for fake download buttons. Some freeware websites display multiple Download buttons, many of which are advertisements or lead to unwanted software. Always download the installer from the software developer’s official page whenever possible.
- Avoid fake update prompts. If a website claims your browser, Flash Player, or antivirus is out of date and asks you to download an update, close the page. Update software through the application’s built-in updater or the developer’s official website instead.
5. Keep Third-Party Applications Updated
Keeping Windows 10 up to date is essential, but it isn’t enough on its own. Many cyberattacks target vulnerabilities in popular third-party applications such as web browsers, PDF readers, media players, and compression tools. If these programs are outdated, attackers may be able to exploit known security flaws even when Windows itself is fully patched.
Give priority to updating the applications you use most often, including:
- Web browsers: Because your browser is constantly connected to the internet, it’s one of the most common targets for cyberattacks. Install updates as soon as they become available to protect against newly discovered security vulnerabilities.
- PDF readers and Office software: Documents can sometimes contain malicious content designed to exploit outdated software. Installing the latest updates helps protect against these types of attacks.
- Compression and media software: Applications such as 7-Zip, WinRAR, and VLC Media Player also receive important security updates. Keeping them current helps close vulnerabilities that attackers may try to exploit.
- Remove software you no longer use. Uninstall applications you no longer need instead of leaving outdated or unsupported programs on your PC, where they could become a security risk.
- Enable automatic updates whenever possible. Automatic updates help ensure you receive important security patches without having to remember to check for them manually.
Keeping both Windows and your everyday applications updated closes known security vulnerabilities and makes it much harder for attackers to exploit your PC.
6. Learn to Recognize Phishing and Online Scams
Even the best security software can’t protect you from every scam. If you’re tricked into revealing your password or downloading malicious software, attackers can bypass many of Windows’ built-in security features. Today’s scammers use AI to create convincing phishing emails, fake websites, text messages, and pop-up warnings that are much harder to distinguish from legitimate ones.
Follow these simple safety tips when browsing the web:
- Check website addresses carefully. Before entering your password or payment details, verify that you’re on the correct website. Scammers often use lookalike domains with minor spelling differences.
- Don’t click unexpected links or attachments. Be cautious of emails and messages claiming you’ve won a prize, need to verify your account, or must pay an urgent invoice.
- Ignore fake Microsoft support warnings. If a website claims your PC is infected and asks you to call a phone number or download software, close the page immediately. Microsoft doesn’t display security alerts through web browsers.
- Avoid browser notification scams. Never click Allow on websites that ask for notification permission unless you trust the site. Some websites abuse browser notifications to display fake virus alerts and misleading advertisements.
- Be cautious with QR codes. If a QR code comes from an unknown source, verify where it leads before scanning it. Fraudsters increasingly use QR codes to redirect users to phishing websites.
Staying alert is one of the most effective ways to protect your Windows 10 PC. Taking a few extra seconds to verify a website, email, or download can help you avoid scams that even security software may not detect.
7. Remove Unused Apps and Browser Extensions
Unused software isn’t just taking up disk space it can also become a security risk. Applications and browser extensions that no longer receive updates may contain vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit. Regularly reviewing what you’ve installed helps reduce your PC’s attack surface.
Review your installed programs and browser extensions regularly using these best practices:
- Uninstall programs you no longer use. Every application is another piece of software that needs updates. Removing unused programs reduces the chances of outdated or vulnerable software remaining on your PC.
- Remove outdated applications. If a program hasn’t received updates for years or is no longer supported by its developer, consider uninstalling it or replacing it with a modern alternative. Unsupported software may contain unpatched security vulnerabilities.
- Review browser extensions regularly. Keep only the extensions you actually use. Remove anything you don’t recognize or no longer need, as unnecessary extensions may continue running in the background or retain permissions that are no longer required.
- Install extensions from trusted developers. Before adding a browser extension, check who published it, read recent user reviews, and review the permissions it requests. Be cautious of extensions asking for broad access unless it’s necessary for their functionality.
- Avoid installing multiple programs that perform the same task. Running several PDF readers, media players, or similar utilities increases the amount of software you need to maintain without providing much additional benefit.
8. Consider Using a Standard User Account for Everyday Use
Using an administrator account for everyday tasks is convenient, but it also gives any malicious program you accidentally run the same level of access as you. A Standard user account adds an extra layer of protection by requiring administrator approval before important system changes can be made.
For everyday activities such as web browsing, checking email, or working with documents, consider using a Standard user account. You can still switch to an administrator account whenever you need to install software or change important Windows settings.
Benefits of using a standard account
- Limits malware damage. Programs running under a Standard account can’t make system-wide changes without administrator approval.
- Prevents unauthorized system changes. Windows asks for administrator credentials before allowing software installations or important system changes.
- Provides better protection on shared computers. Family members or other users can use Standard accounts without having full control over the PC.
To create or manage user accounts, open Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.
Common Windows 10 Security Mistakes to Avoid
Keeping Windows 10 secure isn’t just about enabling the right security features—it’s also about avoiding common mistakes that can leave your PC vulnerable. Even a well-protected computer can be compromised by unsafe habits or poor security decisions.
- Disabling Microsoft Defender or Windows Firewall. Unless you’re troubleshooting a specific issue or using another trusted security solution, keep both enabled at all times.
- Ignoring application updates. Outdated browsers, PDF readers, and other third-party applications often contain known security vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit.
- Downloading cracked or pirated software. Cracked applications, game cheats, and unofficial activators are among the most common sources of malware and ransomware. If software normally requires a license, downloading it from unofficial sources significantly increases your security risk.
- Reusing the same password across multiple accounts. If one website suffers a data breach, attackers often try the same password on your email, banking, and other online accounts. Using a unique password for every account helps prevent this type of attack.
- Installing unnecessary browser extensions. Every extension you install increases your browser’s attack surface. Remove extensions you no longer use and install new ones only from trusted developers.
- Clicking links without verifying the sender. Be cautious of unexpected emails, text messages, or pop-ups asking you to sign in, download a file, or provide personal information.
- Using an administrator account for everything. A standard user account provides an extra layer of protection by limiting what malware can change without your permission.
Good security habits are just as important as antivirus software and Windows security features. Avoiding these common mistakes can significantly reduce your chances of malware infections, phishing attacks, and unauthorized access to your accounts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. Windows 10 can still be used safely in 2026 if you keep it updated, use Microsoft Defender, enable Windows Firewall, and follow good security practices. Eligible devices can also receive Extended Security Updates (ESU) through October 2027.
For most home users, Microsoft Defender provides strong protection against malware, ransomware, and other threats. When combined with Windows Firewall, software updates, and safe browsing habits, it is usually sufficient without a third-party antivirus.
Phishing attacks remain one of the biggest threats. Cybercriminals increasingly use AI-generated emails, fake websites, and online scams to trick users into revealing passwords or downloading malicious software.
Not necessarily. Microsoft Defender offers reliable built-in protection for most users. However, some people may prefer a third-party security suite for additional features such as VPN services, password managers, or identity theft monitoring.
Install Windows and application updates as soon as they become available. Security updates often fix vulnerabilities that attackers actively target, so delaying updates can leave your PC exposed to unnecessary risks.
