Windows is the preferred target for attackers due to its huge user base, but it's also one of the platforms that has evolved the most in native protection. If you choose the built-in tools well and configure them wisely, you can greatly strengthen security without relying solely on third-party software.
In this practical and in-depth guide We've brought together all the utilities and features that best position themselves in the Windows ecosystem in one place: Microsoft Defender Antivirus and the Windows Security app, the MSRT tool, the powerful Security Compliance Toolkit with its baselines, utilities like Policy Analyzer, LGPO, and SetObjectSecurity, and key recommendations for home networks, servers, and clients. We've also added popular free options to round out your strategy.
Scan and clean quickly with Windows Security
If you suspect malware or viruses On your computer, the first thing to do is run a quick scan. Open the Windows Security app, go to Virus & threat protection, and select Quick scan for a quick check of the most critical areas of your system. You can also launch the scan with its shortcut from the dashboard itself.
When the rapid test doesn't detect problems but you still have doubts, it's a good idea to expand the scope with a full or custom scan. A full scan reviews all files and can take considerably longer, while a custom scan allows you to target specific routes or units.
Remember that the Windows Security app It centralizes the status of your antivirus, firewall, app and browser controls, device security, performance/status, and family settings. From there, you'll know if everything is active, up-to-date, and without issues.
You can also manage the antivirus provider from the same console. If you install a third-party antivirus, Windows integrates its control and Microsoft Defender hands over the anti-malware role, maintaining other protections and system visibility.
MSRT: The Removal Tool That Complements Antivirus
MSRT (Malicious Software Removal Tool) It's a Microsoft utility designed to detect and remove common, known malware families. It runs on demand and is ideal as a backup when you suspect something has slipped through the net.
To start it quickly, use the Run window (Windows key + R) and enter the corresponding MSRT command. Once you grant permissions, you'll see the wizard where you can choose the type of scan to perform.
Offers fast and comprehensive analysisThe Quick option takes less time and checks for typical infection locations, while the Full option thoroughly scans the drive. Keep in mind that it doesn't replace Microsoft Defender or your third-party antivirus, as it doesn't run in the background and doesn't cover the full spectrum of threats.
Use MSRT when you suspect an infection or as an additional periodic check. Even so, always keep an updated real-time antivirus, because is what prevents and blocks attacks continuously.
Security Compliance Toolkit: Baselines and utilities for hardening Windows
The Security Compliance Toolkit (SCT) It's an essential tool for administrators. It allows you to download, review, test, edit, and save Microsoft-recommended security configuration baselines for Windows and other products. It makes it easy to compare your GPOs against Microsoft baselines, adjust them, and apply them via Active Directory or locally.
What the SCT currently includes: Baselines for Windows 11 (versions 24H2, 23H2, 22H2, and 21H2), Windows 10 (22H2, 21H2, 1809, 1607, and 1507), and Windows Server (2025, 2022, 2019, and 2016). Also included are baselines for Microsoft Office (Microsoft 365 for Enterprise version 2412) and Microsoft Edge (version 128).
In addition to the baseline contentThe kit includes several key tools: the Policy Analyzer, LGPO for local policies, SetObjectSecurity for security descriptors, and GPO to .PolicyRules conversion (GPO2PolicyRules). All with versions adapted to your operating system.
To stay up to dateMicrosoft recommends reviewing the Microsoft Security Guidance blog, especially when adopting new versions of Windows, Office, or Edge.
SCT tools in detail
Policy Analyzer It allows you to audit and compare sets of GPOs, making it easier to detect duplications, conflicts, and discrepancies. It's useful for establishing and verifying baselines and comparing them with subsequent states.
Its main functions include: detecting redundant or inconsistent configurations, displaying differences between versions, comparing to local policy, and exporting to Excel for analysis and reporting.
LGPO.exe Automates local policy management. It allows you to import and apply configurations, validate domain-free effects, and export backups, in addition to converting registry policy files to editable LGPO format.
SetObjectSecurity.exe It allows you to set descriptors on files, folders, registry keys, services and SMB resources, controlling inheritance and generating .reg files compatible with REG_BINARY values if necessary.
GPO2PolicyRules Automates the conversion of GPO backups to .PolicyRules files, facilitating integration into review pipelines or change control via the command line.
Native security capabilities in Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server
Windows has evolved to make security a cornerstone of the systemInnovations like Windows Hello, which enables passwordless login using biometrics, reduce the risk of compromised credentials.
Measures to limit the scope include virtualization and TPM modules, which prevent escalations from compromised applications. Microsoft Edge also offers privacy protection and tracking blocking.
Backup to OneDrive Provides resilience against loss or theft of equipment. On servers, enhanced features in Windows Server 2016 and later strengthen security in communications, management, and access control to critical resources.
Microsoft Family Safety Facilitates monitoring, protection, and control of minors' use, including scheduling and application blocking. In corporate environments, policies allow for automatic adjustment of document classification.
On servers, highlights include advancements such as shielded virtual machines, AD DS improvements, and password controls, along with solutions such as AppLocker, Device Guard, and Microsoft Defender to strengthen access protection and control.
Cloud services and encryption have increased their relevance, with tools such as Log Analytics and BitLocker that encrypt data on workstations and servers, protecting information even in scenarios of physical loss or targeted attacks.
Microsoft Defender Antivirus and the Windows Security app
Microsoft Defender Antivirus It's built into Windows, providing real-time protection through machine learning and cloud analytics. The database is continuously updated with information from a vast network of devices, quickly detecting emerging threats.
From Virus and Threat Protection You can check status, detection history, and adjust settings. Scheduled or on-demand scans allow you to check the integrity of your system and connected devices, such as USB drives.
It is possible to change the antivirus provider on Windows, causing Defender to take a backseat if you install a third-party solution. Web protection and reputation control are also integrated via SmartScreen for added security.
Occasionally there may be incidents, as in 2021 with a bug that generated excessive temporary files, but overall its performance and detection rate are very reliable.
For advanced environmentsMicrosoft Defender for Endpoint is recommended, which offers EDR, proactive detection, automatic response, and greater security visibility.
Windows Firewall and Network Profiles
The built-in firewall It's essential for protecting against internal attacks and lateral movement, adapting to the network context: domain, private, or public. Its correct use consists of keeping it active and defining specific rules for applications.
It can be accessed to basic settings in Control Panel and to the advanced interface from Windows Tools or the Firewall Settings option, to customize rules and notifications.
It is not advisable to disable it temporarily for convenience., but rather setting up precise rules and recording changes, as this avoids leaving doors open to potential threats.
App and browser control, device security, and more
SmartScreen Blocks malicious sites and dangerous downloads, requiring reputation to run apps. Isolated browsing in Edge protects against browser vulnerability exploitation.
Device security It includes virtualization isolation, secure boot, and leveraging compatible hardware to prevent malicious payloads during the boot process.
The status and performance The device's health can be checked in the health section, which reports on storage, apps, and system integrity, allowing for resets if necessary.
Family options They allow you to limit content, set schedules, and manage child profiles, ensuring greater control and security for the entire family.
BitLocker: Encryption and Requirements
BitLocker Encrypts the disk to protect information in the event of loss, theft, or unauthorized access. Key management can be done through Azure AD or Active Directory in enterprise environments.
The impact on performance must be considered., with an estimated penalty of 3-5%, depending on hardware and configuration.
Common requirements include TPM 2.0, UEFI boot with Secure Boot, and Pro, Enterprise, or Education editions of Windows. The Home version on modern computers can also support full encryption if enabled.
Updates: patches, rings, and paid connections
Update Windows regularly It is key to maintaining security, through the ring system that distributes versions with different levels of testing before reaching all users.
Windows Update Manages automatic downloads and resumes interrupted processes, prioritizing critical updates on low-cost or connection-constrained networks.
The example of WannaCry It demonstrates the importance of applying patches, since many known vulnerabilities allow massive attacks if the system is not updated in time.
Secure home network with Windows tools
The Defender Firewall On home networks, it helps prevent unauthorized access. Enabling it and defining the strictest rules possible improves protection. Take advantage of notifications to manage permissions.
Antivirus In real time, automatically updated, it detects and neutralizes threats quickly, allowing you to schedule periodic scans.
SmartScreen helps you avoid dangerous sites and downloads, enhancing browsing safety.
Control your passwords with strong, different passwords for each service, enabling two-step verification if available to add an extra layer of protection.
AppLocker, Device Guard and Execution Control
AppLocker It allows you to set rules to authorize or block applications based on digital signatures and publishers. It is very effective in reducing unauthorized software and limiting attack vectors.
Device Guard and Windows Defender Application Control They ensure that only trusted and signed applications can run, based on trusted lists, facilitating centralized management through policies.
Manage these systems with policies is essential to maintain security and be able to audit changes in the organization.
Security button on Windows tablets
Some Windows tablets They include a button designed to quickly access the login screen, similar to Ctrl + Alt + Del on the desktop, providing an additional layer of control on touch devices.
This button It is usually located on the side or back and, when pressed, requests the previously configured authentication to access the system.
How to temporarily disable Windows security
You can pause it in specific cases to install software or troubleshoot problems. From Windows Security, under Virus & threat protection, select Manage settings and turn off Real-time protection.
Please note that scheduled scans will continue to function, and it is essential to reactivate protection as soon as possible to maintain active security.
Only disable it if strictly necessary, ensuring that files and programs come from legitimate sources with valid signatures. Avoid running files from dubious sources or links from untrusted emails.
Free third-party tools that add up
Blackbird It is a lightweight utility that helps improve privacy and performance by blocking telemetry, ads, pre-installed apps, and unwanted services without permanently consuming background resources.
O&O ShutUp offers a simple interface to disable intrusive features like cameras, ads, error reporting, and Cortana, without installation.
Kaspersky SecurityCloud It's a free anti-malware with good performance, which includes cloud protection, a private browser, application control, and a password manager and VPN in its free version.
Must be verified If there are regional restrictions in the EU, UK, or California for its use, and if this is not possible, explore free and reliable alternatives.