How to Improve Windows 8.1 Pro Security without 3rd Party Software?

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RmG152

Level 12
Thread author
Verified
Jan 22, 2014
577
Hi, I read some user that "tweak" their windows to improve the security

eg
On a side note, now that I have upgraded from Core to Pro of Windows 8.1, I can disallow execution of any file in the Downloads folder.

I want to find some tweaks to improve Windows 8.1 protection, someone now any tweaks?
 

Ink

Administrator
Verified
Staff Member
Well-known
Jan 8, 2011
22,361
At a Basic level, review your Action Center. I need to reboot, so I'll be back to post more. In the meantime, I found this very useful link with guide, http://www.mechbgon.com/srp/

upload_2014-7-11_12-49-9.png



Network Firewall - This is Windows Firewall. Use your Public profile, when connected to untrusted networks such as hotspots or other public Wifi locations.
upload_2014-7-11_13-6-7.png


Windows Update - This ensures Windows OS is always up-to-date and secure.
upload_2014-7-11_12-51-58.png



Virus + Spyware Protection - This is Windows Defender. Check that real-time protection is enabled and regular scans are performed, either when required or once a week. A quick scan shouldn't take more than a couple of minutes on modern hardware.
upload_2014-7-11_12-53-32.png



Internet Security Settings - 'Internet Options' in IE are set on default settings* with Enhanced Protected Mode enable.
upload_2014-7-11_12-55-47.png

*I have custom settings.

You can also Prevent downloads in Internet Explorer, by clicking Custom Level on the Internet Zone.
upload_2014-7-11_13-11-32.png



User Access Control - Default works best for maximum OS operability and access to all features, such as Windows Refresh and Reset.
upload_2014-7-11_12-57-0.png



Windows SmartScreen - This addition layer in Windows 8.x can prevent unrecognised apps from running.
upload_2014-7-11_12-57-33.png



Microsoft Account - You can ensure your account safety by enabled 2-Factor Authentication and reviewing your Recent Activities.
upload_2014-7-11_13-2-18.png
 

RmG152

Level 12
Thread author
Verified
Jan 22, 2014
577
Thanks for url and IE settings. I know another functions.
Any one now more tweaks?

I hate User Access Control always ask when run task manager
How did you get that black windows border with white font ?
+1
 

Ink

Administrator
Verified
Staff Member
Well-known
Jan 8, 2011
22,361
@RmG152 I'm still looking into more tweaks about my Download folder, I know I did this on Windows 7 a few years ago.

If you have UAC on default, you should not get any UAC prompts when running Task Manager. I can launch Task Manager without any problems, I suggest switching back to default settings.

@KaptainBug I see no white font, unless you're asking what VS I am using, see my post or direct link.
 

KaptainBug

Level 12
Verified
Dec 26, 2013
562
@RmG152 I'm still looking into more tweaks about my Download folder, I know I did this on Windows 7 a few years ago.

If you have UAC on default, you should not get any UAC prompts when running Task Manager. I can launch Task Manager without any problems, I suggest switching back to default settings.

@KaptainBug I see no white font, unless you're asking what VS I am using, see my post or direct link.
Thanks. I don't want to patch my system to use themes. I thought they were some default themes.
 

Cats-4_Owners-2

Level 39
Verified
Honorary Member
Top Poster
Well-known
Dec 4, 2013
2,800
Thanks Huracan, these images are great!:) I feel like I could just come back here if ever I need to copy an image to illustrate an explanation ...unless, of course, Every One Of These Images ends up being pasted!!:p:D ;)
 

Nikos751

Level 20
Verified
Malware Tester
Feb 1, 2013
969
@Huracan , what problem can a user come through if set UAC to maximum? I 've set it to maximum and I have not noticed anything for a long time now.
 

Nikos751

Level 20
Verified
Malware Tester
Feb 1, 2013
969
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