Here’s an overview of the most important settings and processes for a Windows computer that you shouldn’t go through unless you’re pretty sure you know what you’re doing.
1. Windows Registry
Sometimes it is necessary to edit the registry for Windows in order to be able to turn off a certain function, enable fluid operation of software or remove a problem that we can not solve otherwise.
While this can be helpful, fiddling with the Windows registry needs to be left to people who are well versed in the Microsoft operating system and decide on that move for the team only after you’ve tried everything else available to you.
Namely, if the procedure is not performed properly, it can easily happen that the operation of your computer is slowed down, the security rate is reduced, access to useful options is limited, and the like. You may even need to reinstall Windows.
2. Automatic Windows update
Disabling automatic operating system updates should also be avoided whenever possible. Updates usually bring new features, speed up your computer, eliminate detected errors, and better protect your computer from malware.
With the automatic update option turned on, you can be sure you won’t forget to download them. So don’t turn it off for more than a week or two – if you have to.
3. Firewall
Microsoft’s Defender (firewall) is used to block unauthorized access to your computer by recognizing and blocking malicious software (or at least alerting you to it).
If you turn it off, you expose your computer and everything you keep on it to various risks that you can pay dearly for. So don’t turn it off. And if you do decide to do so, install the appropriate protection.
4. Command Prompt
Command Prompt allows better-informed Windows users to perform specific tasks using appropriate commands.
In order for this to be possible, in most cases, you will need to grant Command Prompt administrator privileges. This will give you access to all the files in Windows that you might not otherwise interact with.
So don’t run that app from sources you can’t trust, and don’t do something in it that you don’t know or aren’t sure what it will do. Namely, it is not possible to undo all the changes you have made using Command Prompt.
5. Necessary processes and files
Never delete or exclude files and processes critical to the operation of Windows. Before you decide to delete, check what the file you intended to delete is really for. The same goes for processes in Task Manager.
6. Programs from unreliable sources
Applications and other software from unreliable sources can come with viruses and infect your computer. Windows Defender will block most, but not all. So always download software from sites you can trust and make sure the files you download are secure.
If Defender or another similar program warns you of a possible threat, remove the disputed files from your computer.
READ MORE:
- Microsoft makes it easy for users to create strong passwords
- Microsoft Edge will soon get a free built-in VPN, but there is a catch
- When working from home, the workday has triple peak activities
- Microsoft is reportedly working to introduce commercials to free-to-play video games on the Xbox
- Microsoft has finally made it easier to change the default browser
