“Barring being purely disconnected, if there’s a single tip that could make any Windows PC more secure, it’s this: Stay away from administrator accounts. Follow this pro tip from our old Windows XP safety primer: Hackers can’t hack what they can’t touch. (Norton still works with Windows XP, even!) Batten down the hatches SQBack / Getty Images Be sure to check your chosen program’s Windows 7 support cycle before you buy, though. Again, check out our guide to the best antivirus to see all the security product’s we’ve tested. Norton Security Premium is the best pick for most people right now, but you have options. That expired version of McAfee that came with your computer isn’t going to cut it. Now that your operating system won’t receive security patches it’s even more crucial to run protection on your PC. Yes, Windows Security Essentials is dead too. The free antivirus that Microsoft offers for Windows users works great for most users, but it won’t receive updates now that Windows 7 is end-of-life. Install antivirus software Rob Schultz / IDG Many standalone programs offer an option to update automatically to newer versions as they’re pushed out.

They’re in their twilight years.Īudit all your installed software, including browser plug-ins.

Kick Flash and Java to the curb and only install them if needed. I was able to live my online life surprisingly well without them seven long years ago, and it’s even easier today, though it’s hard to replace some of the meatier features in Reader. Java, Flash, and Adobe Reader are commonly targeted as well, so make sure they’re up to date if you need them. You can probably still upgrade to Windows 10 for free, too.īut if you need to bide some time before making a switch, here’s how to keep Windows 7 as safe as possible. We’ve got a Linux beginner’s guide, too, and better yet you can try it for free with no risk to your main Windows 7 installation. If you perform only basic tasks on your PC-email, web surfing, and documents-then Linux is a viable, user-friendly option these days. We recommend migrating to Windows 10 if you’re able to, and have a guide explaining your Windows 10 upgrade options. With no security updates and a still-vast market share, Microsoft’s operating system will be a big, juicy target for hackers. Sticking with Windows 7 was understandable before now it’s a liability. Seriously: Switch away from Windows 7 by whatever means necessary. Upgrade to Windows 10 or Linux if you can. We can help you stay as safe as possible, though.

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