Advanced Security Jackknif3s security config 2022

Last updated
Jun 4, 2022
How it's used?
For home and private use
Operating system
Windows 10
On-device encryption
Log-in security
Security updates
Allow security updates and latest features
User Access Control
Always notify
Smart App Control
Network firewall
Real-time security
Windows Defender with ConfigureDefender
Firewall security
Microsoft Defender Firewall
About custom security
Configure Defender (high)
Documents AntiExploit
FirewallHardening
Periodic malware scanners
Malwarebytes Free
KVRT
Malware sample testing
I do not participate in malware testing
Browser(s) and extensions
Firefox
-Search: Google
-Addons: HTTPS Everywhere, uBlock Origin
Secure DNS
NextDNS
Desktop VPN
None
Password manager
BitWarden
Maintenance tools
None
File and Photo backup
External Harddrive (connected only when transferring)
System recovery
Windows Recovery Drive on USB
Risk factors
    • Browsing to popular websites
    • Opening email attachments
    • Buying from online stores, entering banks card details
    • Downloading software and files from reputable sites
    • Gaming
    • Streaming audio/video content from trusted sites or paid subscriptions
Computer specs
i7-6700K
Asus 1070 O8G
G.Skill Trident Z DDR4 3200Mhz (2x8Gb)
Samsung 850 EVO 500 GB (Main drive)
1 other SSD (something like 240 GB)
2 HDDs (1 & 2 TB)
What I'm looking for?

Looking for maximum feedback.

Jackknif3

Level 1
Thread author
Dec 5, 2018
12
Hey all,

here's my current config, might've forgotten to add something, it's been a while since I've done much to my config.
Looking for suggestions since I decided to drop VoodooShield a while back.
As I said, I used to use VoodooShield but decided to drop it recently after the update (7.10 or something like that...). Should I consider replacing it with something?

I am mostly using freeware security solutions currently, but please do recommend paid options as well if you think they would be more beneficial in any way.
 
Last edited:

Gandalf_The_Grey

Level 76
Verified
Honorary Member
Top Poster
Content Creator
Well-known
Apr 24, 2016
6,505
You could harden your system further with Simple Windows Hardening also from @Andy Ful like ConfigureDefender:
I would use MS Edge as browser security wise when you rely on Windows Defender:
For periodic security scanners there are other more preferred options:
Why the use of 2 adblockers, AdGuard and uBlock Origin ?
 

Jackknif3

Level 1
Thread author
Dec 5, 2018
12
You could harden your system further with Simple Windows Hardening also from @Andy Ful like ConfigureDefender:
I would use MS Edge as browser security wise when you rely on Windows Defender:
For periodic security scanners there are other more preferred options:
Why the use of 2 adblockers, AdGuard and uBlock Origin ?
Thanks for the suggestions!

I'll have to look more into the hardening, probably will implement it shortly.

Also will have to see about Edge, really like Firefox and have gotten used to it, so it's probably going to be a lot of work to switch, but we'll see.

Adding KVRT as a periodic security scanner.

Ummmm, to be honest, I don't even remember anymore, probably saw people recommending those here/somewhere and decided to get both.
Is it recommended to only use one or are there some adverse effects when using both?
 

Gandalf_The_Grey

Level 76
Verified
Honorary Member
Top Poster
Content Creator
Well-known
Apr 24, 2016
6,505
It is not recommended to use two the same kind of adblockers by Raymond Hill the maker of uBlock Origin:
Seriously: Do NOT use similar-purposed blocker(s) along with uBlock Origin: this will cripple uBO's ability to defuse anti-blocker mechanisms and its ability to minimize likelihood of site breakage. ("similar-purposed" = any other blocker making use of EasyList).

Plus it can slow down browsing.
 

Back3

Level 14
Verified
Top Poster
Apr 14, 2019
654
Also will have to see about Edge, really like Firefox and have gotten used to it, so it's probably going to be a lot of work to switch, but we'll see.

I use 2 browsers: Edge and Chrome. If you still want to use Firefox and enhance your security, you could keep one adblocker and use DNS protection on Firefox. I have NextDNS set for Chrome.
Nice thread to configure NextDNS

 
Last edited:

Jackknif3

Level 1
Thread author
Dec 5, 2018
12
Nice thread to configure NextDNS

Thanks for the tip!

I'll look into DNS protection and especially NextDNS since you mentioned it.
 
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oldschool

Level 81
Verified
Top Poster
Well-known
Mar 29, 2018
7,044
I used to use VoodooShield but decided to drop it recently after the update (7.10 or something like that...). Should I consider replacing it with something?
If you have good browsing habits I wouldn't bother. I'm no longer a fan of hardening, locking-down, layered defenses and all the rest of the nonsense that makes users jump though hoops. I prefer usability. ;) Simply keeping your OS and apps updated goes a long way in keeping you safe.

And if you spend a great deal of time on the computer I recommend this app Mindfulness at the computer. :cool:
 

harlan4096

Moderator
Verified
Staff Member
Malware Hunter
Well-known
Apr 28, 2015
8,635
Personal Files & Photos backup -> You may use here also a cloud service.

Device recovery & backup -> Windows Recovery Drive on USB, You should use here preferably a full image system back solution, there is no backup process in Windows Recovery Drive on USB, only recovery :)
 

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