This blog was inspired by a very real and important question posed during a recent conversation between Representative Viola Davis of Georgia and Cheyenne Harden of Cyber Protect LLC:
“The average person with a home computer does not know what steps to take to protect themselves and/or which products to buy.”
It’s a concern we hear often — and it’s exactly why we’ve created this simple, step-by-step guide. Whether you’re tech-savvy or just getting started, these practical tips will help you stay protected without feeling overwhelmed.
In today’s digital world, your home computer holds more valuable information than ever before. From banking details and personal photos to business documents and shopping accounts, hackers see your computer as a treasure chest waiting to be opened. The good news? You don’t need to be a tech expert to protect yourself effectively.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through seven essential steps that every computer user should take to safeguard their digital life. These aren’t complicated technical procedures – they’re practical, proven methods that anyone can implement to dramatically reduce their risk of being hacked.
Why Your Home Computer Security Matters in 2025
Every day, cybercriminals launch millions of attacks against home computers. They’re looking for credit card numbers, social security information, business data, and personal files they can hold for ransom. The average cost of a data breach for individuals can reach thousands of dollars, not to mention the time and stress involved in recovering from an attack.
The reality is that most successful cyber attacks don’t happen because hackers are incredibly sophisticated – they succeed because people haven’t taken basic protective steps. By following the strategies in this guide, you’ll make your computer a much harder target, causing most attackers to move on to easier victims.
7 Essential Cybersecurity Steps to Secure Your PC
Step 1: Create a Standard User Account on Windows 11
One of the most powerful yet overlooked security measures is using a standard user account for your daily computer activities instead of an administrator account. When you use an administrator account for everything, you’re essentially giving every program and website the keys to your entire computer.
Why This Matters
Administrator accounts have unlimited access to your computer’s files and settings. If malware infects your computer while you’re using an admin account, that malware inherits those same unlimited privileges. A standard user account, however, severely limits what malware can do, often stopping infections before they can take hold.
How to Set Up a Standard User Account
Setting up a standard user account in Windows 11 takes just a few minutes:
Step 1: Click the Start button and select “Settings” (the gear icon).
Step 2: In Settings, click on “Accounts” in the left sidebar.
Step 3: Select “Family & other users” from the menu.
Step 4: Under “Other users,” click “Add account.”
Step 5: Choose “I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.”
Step 6: Select “Add a user without a Microsoft account.”
Step 7: Enter a username (like “DailyUser”) and a strong password. You can leave the password hint blank.
Step 8: Click “Next” to create the account.
Step 9: Once created, click on the new account and select “Change account type.”
Step 10: Ensure it’s set to “Standard User” (this should be the default).
Now, log out of your current account and log into your new standard user account for daily activities. Only switch back to your administrator account when you need to install software or make system changes.
Step 2: Choose the Right Antivirus Protection
Not all antivirus software is created equal. After extensive testing by security experts, two solutions consistently rise to the top for home users.
BitDefender: The Editor’s Choice
BitDefender has earned PC Magazine’s 2025 Editor’s Choice Award for good reason. This comprehensive security suite offers excellent malware detection, minimal impact on system performance, and user-friendly features that don’t require technical expertise.
BitDefender’s strength lies in its proactive approach. Instead of just catching known viruses, it uses advanced behavioral analysis to identify suspicious activity before it can harm your computer. The software also includes web protection that blocks dangerous websites and email security that filters out malicious attachments.
Malwarebytes: The Malware Specialist
Malwarebytes takes a different but equally effective approach. Originally designed as a specialized anti-malware tool, it excels at detecting and removing the types of threats that traditional antivirus might miss. Many security professionals use Malwarebytes alongside their primary antivirus for an extra layer of protection.
What sets Malwarebytes apart is its focus on emerging threats. As cybercriminals develop new attack methods, Malwarebytes typically adapts quickly to defend against them.
Making Your Choice
For most users, BitDefender provides comprehensive, all-in-one protection that’s easy to manage. If you prefer a more hands-on approach or want additional protection alongside Windows Defender, Malwarebytes offers excellent specialized protection.
Both options are significantly more effective than free antivirus solutions, which often lack the advanced features needed to stop today’s sophisticated threats.
Step 3: Use Microsoft Edge with Enhanced Security
Your web browser is your gateway to the internet, making it a critical security component. While many browsers offer decent protection, Microsoft Edge provides superior security features that most users don’t know about.
Why Edge Beats the Competition
Microsoft Edge uses the same core engine as Google Chrome, so you get the same fast browsing experience and website compatibility. However, Edge includes Microsoft’s SmartScreen technology, which consistently outperforms Google’s security features in independent tests.
SmartScreen analyzes websites in real-time, checking them against Microsoft’s constantly updated database of known malicious sites. When you try to visit a dangerous website, Edge blocks access and warns you about the threat.
Enabling Edge’s Security Features
To maximize your protection in Microsoft Edge:
Step 1: Open Microsoft Edge and click the three dots (⋯) in the top-right corner.
Step 2: Select “Settings” from the dropdown menu.
Step 3: Click “Privacy, search, and services” in the left sidebar.
Step 4: Under “Security,” ensure these settings are enabled:
- Microsoft Defender SmartScreen: Turn ON
- Block potentially unwanted apps: Turn ON
- Block ads and trackers: Set to “Balanced” or “Strict”
Step 5: Scroll to “Services” and enable:
- Address bar and search suggestions
- Show search and site suggestions using my typed characters
Step 6: Under “Clear browsing data,” set up automatic clearing for enhanced privacy.
These settings provide robust protection without significantly impacting your browsing experience.
Step 4: Implement DNS Filtering for Added Protection
DNS (Domain Name System) filtering might sound technical, but it’s actually a simple way to add another layer of security to your internet connection. Think of DNS as the internet’s phone book – it translates website names into the numerical addresses computers use to connect.
How DNS Filtering Protects You
When you use filtered DNS services, they check every website you try to visit against databases of known malicious sites. If you accidentally click on a dangerous link or type in a compromised website address, the DNS filter blocks the connection before it reaches your computer.
This protection works for your entire home network, protecting all connected devices including smartphones, tablets, and smart home devices.
Recommended DNS Services
OpenDNS Home offers free DNS filtering with options to block malicious websites and adult content. It’s user-friendly and includes basic reporting features.
Quad9 provides free DNS filtering focused purely on security. It blocks access to malicious domains without filtering content, making it ideal for users who want security without content restrictions.
Setting Up DNS Filtering in Windows 11
Step 1: Right-click the network icon in your system tray and select “Network and Internet settings.”
Step 2: Click “Advanced network settings.”
Step 3: Under “Related settings,” click “Change adapter options.”
Step 4: Right-click your active network connection and select “Properties.”
Step 5: Select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” and click “Properties.”
Step 6: Select “Use the following DNS server addresses” and enter:
For OpenDNS:
- Preferred DNS server: 208.67.222.222
- Alternate DNS server: 208.67.220.220
For Quad9:
- Preferred DNS server: 9.9.9.9
- Alternate DNS server: 149.112.112.112
Step 7: Click “OK” to save the changes.
Step 8: Restart your computer to ensure the changes take effect.
Step 5: Keep Windows Updates Current
Windows updates often get a bad reputation for being inconvenient, but they’re one of your most important security tools. Microsoft regularly releases patches that fix security vulnerabilities discovered by researchers and cybersecurity experts.
Why Updates Matter
Cybercriminals actively look for known security flaws in operating systems and software. When Microsoft releases an update that fixes a vulnerability, hackers know that computers without that update are still vulnerable. This creates a race between users installing updates and criminals exploiting unpatched systems.
Configuring Automatic Updates
Step 1: Open Settings by clicking the Start button and selecting the gear icon.
Step 2: Click “Windows Update” in the left sidebar.
Step 3: Click “Advanced options.”
Step 4: Ensure these settings are configured:
- Receive updates for other Microsoft products: Turn ON
- Download updates over metered connections: Turn ON (if you have unlimited internet)
- Restart this device as soon as possible: Turn ON
Step 5: Set “Active hours” to match when you typically use your computer. This prevents updates from restarting your computer during work hours.
Step 6: Under “Additional options,” enable “Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available.”
This configuration ensures your computer stays protected with minimal disruption to your daily routine.
Step 6: Implement Password Management
Poor password practices represent one of the biggest security risks for home computer users. Using the same password across multiple accounts or choosing weak passwords makes you an easy target for cybercriminals.
The Password Problem
Most people use variations of the same password across multiple accounts because remembering dozens of unique, complex passwords seems impossible. However, when hackers break into one account, they immediately try those same credentials on other popular websites and services.
Data breaches happen regularly – even to major companies with strong security teams. When your information gets exposed in a breach, having unique passwords for each account prevents criminals from accessing your other accounts.
Why Bitwarden Stands Out
Bitwarden offers enterprise-grade password management for free to individual users. Unlike many free services with limited features, Bitwarden’s free tier includes everything most people need:
- Unlimited password storage
- Automatic password generation
- Cross-device synchronization
- Secure sharing capabilities
- Two-factor authentication support
Setting Up Bitwarden
Step 1: Visit bitwarden.com and click “Get Started.”
Step 2: Create your account using a strong, unique master password. This is the only password you’ll need to remember, so make it count.
Step 3: Download the Bitwarden browser extension for your web browser.
Step 4: Install the Bitwarden mobile app on your smartphone.
Step 5: Begin importing or manually adding your existing accounts.
Step 6: Use Bitwarden’s password generator to create unique, strong passwords for each account.
Step 7: Enable two-factor authentication on your Bitwarden account for additional security.
Best Practices for Password Management
- Use Bitwarden’s password generator for all new accounts
- Gradually update existing accounts with stronger, unique passwords
- Never save passwords in your web browser when using a password manager
- Regularly review and update passwords for sensitive accounts
- Share passwords securely through Bitwarden rather than text or email
Step 7: Additional Security Measures
Beyond these core protective steps, several additional measures can further strengthen your security posture.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your accounts by requiring a second form of verification beyond your password. Even if criminals steal your password, they can’t access your account without the second factor.
Enable 2FA on all accounts that support it, prioritizing financial accounts, email, and social media. Use an authenticator app like Microsoft Authenticator or Google Authenticator rather than SMS when possible.
Regular Security Scans
Schedule weekly full-system scans with your antivirus software. While real-time protection handles most threats, regular scans can catch anything that might have slipped through.
Backup Your Important Data
Regular backups protect you from ransomware attacks and hardware failures. Use a combination of cloud storage and external drives, following the 3-2-1 backup rule: three copies of important data, on two different types of media, with one copy stored off-site. We really like Backblaze because it’s easy and it works!
Stay Informed About Threats
Subscribe to security newsletters from reputable sources like the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) or your antivirus vendor. Understanding current threat trends helps you recognize and avoid new attack methods.
Creating Your Security Action Plan
Implementing all these security measures might seem overwhelming, but you don’t need to do everything at once. Here’s a practical timeline for strengthening your security:
Week 1: Set up your standard user account and choose your antivirus solution.
Week 2: Configure Microsoft Edge security settings and implement DNS filtering.
Week 3: Set up Windows Update automation and create your Bitwarden account.
Week 4: Begin migrating your passwords to Bitwarden and enable two-factor authentication on critical accounts.
Ongoing: Maintain your security measures and stay informed about new threats.
The Cost of Inaction
While implementing these security measures requires some time and effort, the cost of ignoring cybersecurity is far greater. Identity theft victims spend an average of 100+ hours and hundreds of dollars recovering from attacks. Ransomware victims often lose irreplaceable family photos, business documents, and personal files.
Beyond financial costs, cyber attacks create significant stress and disruption to your daily life. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your digital life is properly protected is invaluable.
Final Thoughts: Invest in Your Digital Safety Today
The cybersecurity landscape will continue evolving, but one thing remains constant: businesses that invest in advanced security measures consistently outperform those that rely on basic protections. Your SSL certificate is just the beginning – comprehensive web security requires layered defenses that adapt to emerging threats.
Don’t wait for a security incident to reveal the gaps in your current protection. The cost of prevention is always lower than the cost of recovery.
Links & Contact Information
- Malwarebytes:
https://www.malwarebytes.com/for-home - BitDefender:
https://www.bitdefender.com/en-us/consumer/ - OpenDNS Home:
https://www.opendns.com/home-internet-security/ - Quad9:
https://www.quad9.net/ - Bitwarden:
https://bitwarden.com/ - Backblaze:
https://www.backblaze.com/cloud-backup/personal
For personalized cybersecurity consulting and implementation support, contact Cyber Protect LLC. Our team of experts specializes in making enterprise-grade security accessible and manageable for businesses.
How to Protect Home Computer from Cyber Threat
Important Legal Disclaimer
- NO WARRANTY OR GUARANTEE: The information, recommendations, and instructions in this article are for educational purposes only and are provided “as is” without warranty of any kind, either express or implied, including but not limited to warranties of merchantability,
fitness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement. - LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: Cyber Protect LLC, its authors, employees, and affiliates make no representations or warranties about the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of the information contained
herein. Users implement these recommendations entirely at their own risk and discretion. - NO PROFESSIONAL RELATIONSHIP: Reading this article doesn’t create a professional service relationship between you and Cyber Protect LLC. This content doesn’t constitute professional cybersecurity consulting, technical support, or personalized advice for your specific situation.
- USER RESPONSIBILITY: Before implementing any recommendations, users should back up their data and consider consulting with a qualified IT professional. Every computer system and network environment is different, and what works in one situation may not be appropriate for another.
- HOLD HARMLESS: By using the information in this article, you agree to hold harmless and indemnify Cyber Protect LLC, its officers, employees, and agents from any and all claims, damages, losses, costs, or expenses (including reasonable attorney fees) arising from your use of this information or any consequences thereof.
- PROFESSIONAL CONSULTATION RECOMMENDED: For specific cybersecurity needs, professional assessment, or implementation assistance tailored to your unique situation, we recommend consulting with qualified cybersecurity professionals.
