If you use Windows 11 daily, your security no longer depends solely on whether or not you have antivirus software. Today, the system comes loaded with layers of protection, but if the user doesn't configure them properly or makes a couple of mistakes, any malware can infiltrate your system. phishing or remote trojan It can slip in without much trouble. The good news is that, with a few good practices and by taking advantage of built-in features, you can make your PC very well protected without going crazy.
In the following lines you will see a very complete guide with good security practices in Windows 11From managing updates, accounts, antivirus, and firewalls, to avoiding human error, understanding what a RAT is, and using advanced features like VBS, HVCI, TPM 2.0, BitLocker, Windows Hello, and Microsoft Defender offline. All explained in plain Spanish, but with the technical rigor needed to truly harden your computer.
Updating Windows 11 and apps: the first line of defense
The starting point for having a secure system is that all the software is patched and up to dateMost modern attacks exploit known vulnerabilities for which updates already exist, but which the user has not installed.
In Windows 11, the first thing to do is enter Start > Settings > Windows UpdateFrom there you'll see if you have any pending patches and you can enable automatic updates. Installing is key. all cumulative and security updatesnot just the "optional" ones, to close holes that attackers use to run malicious code, escalate privileges, or disable system protections.
This philosophy of keeping everything up-to-date should also be applied to all other programs. Browsers, email clients, messaging apps, video calling solutions, PDF players… any outdated software can become a problem. malware entry pointWhenever possible, enable automatic updates within each application or frequently check for new versions, and consider using apps to improve security that complement the protections.
Use antivirus, firewall, and other layers of protection
In addition to patches, you need a good set of security tools running in the background. In Windows 11, this typically relies on... Windows Security (Microsoft Defender)However, you can also use third-party solutions if needed.
Microsoft Defender and other antivirus programs
Windows 11 integrates its own antivirus engine, Microsoft Defender, within the control panel. Windows securityIt's no longer the "lazy antivirus" of years past: independent tests like AV-Test show that it offers a very high level of protection, with top scores in performance and usability, and only a small margin over the best paid solutions.
From the section Antivirus and threat protection You can run quick, full, or custom scans, review detection history, and configure real-time protection, cloud-based protection, and threat intelligence signatures. Crucial options such as the following are also located here: ransomware protectionwhich adds folder control and backup to minimize damage if your files are encrypted.
If you prefer a third-party antivirus (for example, Avast, Bitdefender, or others), it's worth checking that it doesn't duplicate Windows 11 functions in a way that could cause conflicts. The important thing is that you have a well-configured security suite, updated and that you don't leave your equipment without real-time protection at any time.
Windows Firewall and Network Protection
The firewall is responsible for filtering incoming and outgoing traffic, blocking unauthorized connections and potential intrusion attempts. In Windows 11 you have the Windows Defender Firewall Integrated and active by default. From Windows Security, in the section Firewall and network protectionYou can check the status of the firewall on domain, private and public networks, and define inbound and outbound rules.
It is highly recommended to always keep the firewall activated Only open ports or allow specific applications when absolutely necessary. Any unnecessary "hole" is a potential gateway for an attacker to connect to your computer or internal services.
Application and browser control
Another key element of Windows Security is the section Application and browser controlThis section includes options such as SmartScreen, reputation-based protection, and blocking potentially unwanted applications (PUAs). Enabling these helps to slow the download and execution of dubious programs, block fraudulent websites, and detect phishing attempts before you press anything.
By enabling reputation-based protection, the system analyzes whether a file or application is widely used and trusted, or if, on the contrary, it seems new and suspicious. This extra layer can prevent you from running compromised binaries or Trojanized installers downloaded from untrusted websites.
VPN and security on public networks
If you use a laptop and regularly connect to public Wi‑Fi networks In cafes, hotels, or airports, a reliable VPN is practically essential. While it's not a virus-blocking tool, it does encrypt all your traffic, making it much harder for someone on the same network to intercept your data or steal your credentials.
By using a trusted VPN, your real IP address is hidden behind the VPN server, which helps maintain privacy. privacy and anonymity of your browsing And it can be used to access region-restricted content. However, you should be aware that a VPN doesn't replace antivirus or firewalls; they are complementary layers that add to the protections of Windows 11.
Safe downloads: avoiding "free" malware
One of the most common sources of infection today is downloading from shady websites, unofficial stores, or links received via email or messaging. To minimize risks, get into the habit of downloading from reputable sources. Software only from official websitesMicrosoft Store, manufacturer's website, or recognized repositories.
The same applies to documents such as Word, Excel, PDF or ZIP that arrive via email or social media. If you don't know the sender or something seems off (language, tone, urgency, spelling mistakes, strange addresses), don't open the file and delete it immediately. Many ransomware and Trojans hide precisely in "innocent" attachments that require the user to double-click to activate.
Periodic inspections and safety maintenance
Security in Windows 11 isn't something you configure once and forget about. It's advisable to do a Periodic revision of the system status, applications, and devices you connect to your PC.
From the module Performance and device health Windows Security lets you view reports on system health, storage capacity, boot integrity, and potential issues that could affect stability and security. Use these checks to remove unused software, uninstall suspicious add-ons, and ensure that real-time protection, the firewall, and isolation technologies are still active.
Programming is also useful periodic analyzes with the antivirus (for example, every week) and review the Protection History for any detected threats that you allowed by mistake or that require further action, and create automatic backups of your files.
User accounts, UAC, and privilege control
Another good practice, often overlooked in home environments, is to avoid using an account with administrator privileges daily. It's safer to create one or more separate accounts. standard accounts for everyday use and reserve the administrator account only for maintenance tasks (installing software, changing critical settings, etc.).
When working with a standard account, even if malware runs, it will have less chance of make profound changes to the systemIn Windows 11 you can manage these accounts from Settings > Accounts, creating separate profiles for each user of the computer and assigning the appropriate permissions.
Furthermore, it is essential to keep the User Account Control (UAC)This feature causes a window to appear asking for your confirmation whenever an application attempts to alter important system settings or install itself with elevated privileges. Far from being a nuisance, it's a very useful barrier for detecting programs that want to make changes behind your back.
Also protect other devices and the network
It's not enough to protect your PC if you then connect unsafe devices to it or share a poorly configured home network. An external hard drive, a USB drive, or even an infected mobile phone can act as an attack vector and infect your computer with Windows 11.
Before connecting external drives, get used to scanning them with your antivirus. Likewise, protect your router and your Wi-Fi network Use strong passwords, WPA2 or WPA3 encryption, and disable unnecessary options that could expose your system (WPS, remote services open to the internet without control, etc.). An attacker who gains access through your network can move laterally and reach your PC even if it appears well-protected.
Is it possible to hack a Windows 11 administrator account?
In Windows environments, user passwords are stored in the form of hashes in system filesThis means that if someone has physical access to the computer or boots from an external system, they can attempt to manipulate or reset those passwords without knowing them. In the field of security auditing and access recovery, there are specific tools for this purpose.
Password reset tools: PassCue and Lazesoft Recovery
Programs like Pass Cue o Lazesoft Recovery They allow you to create a bootable medium (USB, DVD) from another computer, boot the target computer from that medium, and list the user accounts existing on the Windows system. They then offer options for reset the password for local accounts or even enable keyless access.
The process is usually similar: you download the software to a computer you have access to, install it, create a bootable USB drive or CD, and configure the BIOS/UEFI of the locked PC to boot from that device. Upon startup, the tool displays the detected accounts and allows you to reset the password or leave it blank, after which you can log into Windows without the original key.
From a security standpoint, this makes one thing clear: if someone manages to uncontrolled physical access On your computer, someone could manipulate accounts and data. That's why it's so important to combine strong passwords with full disk encryption (BitLocker) and protect the boot process with Secure Boot and, when possible, with a boot PIN or hardware authentication.
Using Kali Linux to recover or manipulate passwords
Another more technical option is to use a security testing distribution such as Kali LinuxBy booting Kali from a USB drive, you can mount the partition where Windows is installed and access the path Windows/System32/config and work on the SAM file, which stores the hashes of the local accounts.
Tools like chntpw They allow you to list users, edit account properties, and even reset the password of a specific user by directly modifying that SAM file. The process involves running commands in the terminal (cd to the folder, listing the SAM file, using chntpw -l, chntpw -u, etc.) and then confirming the changes. All of this underscores that, if an attacker has the necessary knowledge and access to the system, they can bypass the traditional password system.
Human error: the great Achilles' heel
Most modern attacks require the victim to take some action at some point: clicking on a link, enabling macros, installing a "magic" program, or entering credentials on a fake website. Therefore, beyond the tools themselves, the Security in Windows 11 relies heavily on common sense. of user.
Phishing and suspicious links
Attacks Phishing They remain the most popular method for stealing passwords or distributing malware. They arrive via email, SMS, social media, or messaging apps, and often impersonate banks, well-known services, or even trusted contacts. They trick you into clicking a link that takes you to a cloned page where you enter your username and password, or download a malicious file.
To reduce risk, avoid clicking on links in unexpected messages, especially if they mention prizes, urgent account issues, unusual bills, or alarming security alerts. If in doubt, visit the official website yourself by typing the address into your browser or using the legitimate app, instead of following the link in the message, and remember that No reputable organization will ask you for your full passwords via email..
Dangerous accessories and extensions
Browser extensions, plugins, and add-ons can provide very useful functions, but they are also a common channel for cybercriminals to distribute malware. spyware, adware, or password stealersOnly install extensions from the official stores of each browser (Chrome Web Store, Microsoft Edge Add-ons, etc.) and carefully check the reviews, the number of users, and the permissions they request.
Even if an add-on is in the official store, it's a good idea to search for its name online to see if there are any reports of suspicious behavior. Be wary of extensions that request full access to read and modify all your data on all websites without a clear reason, as this can be a red flag. It would give them free rein to spy on your activity.
Do not disclose unnecessary personal information.
Sharing personal data carelessly on forums, social networks, or public websites makes the attackers' job easier. With just a few snippets of information (email, phone number, full name, company, job title), they can prepare malicious campaigns. very credible phishing and targeted, or fill your inbox with personalized spam.
Limit the information you make public, and when registering for online services, only provide the data that is absolutely necessary. Also, review app permissions in Windows 11 (camera, microphone, location, contact access, etc.) from Settings > Privacy and security, so that only essential apps have access to sensitive resources.
What is a RAT and why is it so dangerous?
A RAT (Remote Access Trojan) is a tool that allows control a device remotelyLegitimate remote administration solutions exist, but when used for malicious purposes they become one of the most dangerous types of malware.
Malicious RATs disguise themselves as seemingly normal programs: games, free "premium" applications, cracks, email attachments, or even fake updates. Once the user runs the file, the Trojan installs itself on the system and opens a invisible back door and connects to the attacker's server, who can take control without the victim noticing anything unusual.
With a RAT (Remote Access Trojan), a cybercriminal can turn on your webcam or microphone, record keystrokes, steal passwords, copy documents, install more malware, or use your PC as a base to attack other computers on the network. Often, this is done silently, without leaving any obvious signs, making this type of threat a particularly serious problem.
How to reduce the risk of RAT infection
To avoid falling into the hands of a RAT, the recommendations are a combination of technology and best practices. On the one hand, always use updated antivirus and antimalwareKeep Windows 11 up to date with the latest patches and make use of the firewall, browser protections, and application reputation management.
On the other hand, use common sense: don't download pirated software, avoid cracks and keygens, be wary of "miracle tools" that promise to optimize your PC or give you advantages in games, and above all, Do not open attachments or run suspicious files that arrive via email or courier. Combining these measures greatly reduces the likelihood of a RAT being installed and, if it does, increases the chances that the antivirus will detect and block it.
Advanced security technologies in Windows 11: VBS, HVCI, TPM, and Secure Boot
Windows 11 doesn't just rely on antivirus and firewalls; it includes several advanced technologies that harden the system from the hardware level and through virtualization. Understanding these technologies helps you take full advantage of them and anticipate potential compatibility issues with older software.
On one side is VBS (Virtualization-Based Security)This creates isolated environments through virtualization to protect critical system components, such as credentials or parts of the kernel, from low-level attacks. This makes it much harder for exploits to steal password hashes or inject code into the kernel, for example.
Linked to VBS is HVCI (Hypervisor-Enforced Code Integrity)This verifies that the code running in kernel mode is signed and trusted. In practice, this means that many older or unsigned drivers They will not be able to run on Windows 11precisely to prevent a malicious or manipulated controller from breaking the security isolation.
Furthermore, Windows 11 requires a chip in most scenarios. TPM 2.0 and using Secure BootThe TPM manages encryption and authentication keys, adding a root of trust to the hardware. Secure Boot, meanwhile, prevents unsigned bootloaders or systems from loading at startup, complicating attacks that occur before Windows itself starts.
This combination of VBS, HVCI, TPM, and Secure Boot means that software packages designed for Windows 11 must comply with standards of stricter security and signature requirementsIn return, this means that certain older programs or drivers will stop working, especially in corporate environments with legacy applications. Therefore, before migrating, it's advisable to check with vendors and consult compatibility lists to avoid surprises.
Practical security features in Windows 11: Windows Hello, UAC, and more
In everyday use, in addition to these "invisible" mechanisms, Windows 11 puts several visible functions at your fingertips that improve how you log in, control system changes, and manage data protection.
Windows Hello and strong authentication
Windows Hello It allows you to log in with your face, fingerprint, or a secure PIN, instead of a traditional password. Besides being more convenient, it adds a layer of security by associating the access method with the physical device (camera, fingerprint reader, TPM), making it more difficult to steal reusable credentials.
Setting up Windows Hello is as simple as going to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options and choosing the available methods on your computer. For professional or business use, it's highly recommended to combine it with Two-factor authentication (2FA) in online services and strong passwords to maximize account protection.
User Account Control (UAC) and other protections
the already mentioned UAC It remains an essential ally. Configuring it to alert you whenever a program attempts to escalate privileges provides significant visibility into what's happening on the system. It's better to receive a few extra notifications and review what you're approving than to have changes made silently and unchecked.
In addition to this, it is worth taking advantage of disk encryption through BitLocker on compatible devices. If someone steals your laptop or hard drive, they won't be able to read your files without the encryption key, even if they boot the computer with an external operating system. This measure, combined with TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, closes many avenues of physical access to your data.
Microsoft Defender, Windows 11 Security, and offline tools
Console Windows security It centralizes almost all of the system's built-in protections. From there you can manage antivirus, firewall, application control, device security, performance, health, and family options (parental controls and child monitoring through Microsoft Family Safety).
For particularly complicated cases, such as rootkits or highly persistent malwareMicrosoft also offers Microsoft Defender OfflineThis tool runs outside of Windows itself, in a minimal environment, so that threats disguised within the operating system cannot hide. In Windows 10 and 11, it is integrated into Windows Security and can be launched directly from there to perform a deep scan before the main system loads.
Thus, even if malware has infected critical components or attempts to disable the antivirus from within, it is possible clean the system from an isolated environment where it has no capacity for defense.
Good digital practices and legitimate licenses
However modern and robust Windows 11 may be, if the user installs pirated versions of the system or software, disables updates, or gives in to dubious shortcuts, all that effort is wasted. Using a official Windows 11 license (e.g., Professional OEM) It ensures you'll receive all updates, be able to use advanced security features, and avoid legal and stability issues, which is especially important for businesses.
Similarly, using only legitimate software drastically reduces the chance of receiving malware hidden in cracks, activators, or modified installers. Furthermore, official programs receive regular security patches and updates, while pirated versions lack these, leaving you vulnerable to known vulnerabilities.
By combining genuine licenses, proper configuration of Windows 11 features, and the best practices you've seen (constant updates, active antivirus and firewall, beware of phishing, responsible use of extensions, network protection, and data encryption), your computer can achieve a very high level of security, both in home and professional environments, without needing to complicate things too much or have advanced cybersecurity knowledge. Share these Windows 11 security measures so others can protect their computers.