Skip to main content

πŸ–₯️ Securing Your PC and Configuring Passkeys

πŸ”’ 1. Basic Principles for Securing Your PC​

A secure PC is protected against cyberattacks, viruses, and intrusions. Here are the basics to secure your computer.

βœ… 1.1 Updating Your Operating System​

  • Windows: Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update
  • macOS: System Preferences > Software Update
  • Linux: Use the following commands:
    • Ubuntu/Debian: sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
    • Fedora: sudo dnf update

πŸ“– Microsoft Guide - Windows Update
πŸ“– Apple Guide - macOS Update

πŸ” 1.2 Activating an Antivirus and a Firewall​

  • Windows: Windows Security > Virus & Threat Protection
  • macOS: Firewall activated in Security & Privacy
  • Linux: Install ufw (sudo apt install ufw), then enable with sudo ufw enable

πŸ“– Microsoft Guide - Windows Security

πŸ“– Google Chrome Guide - Secure Your Browsing

πŸ“– Apple Safari Guide - Privacy and Security

If you want me to add them directly to the document, let me know! 😊

Good news for you, by using SmartLink you are already taking a giant step towards securing your IT environment!

πŸ•΅οΈ 1.4 Securing Your Browser and Connections​

  • Enable HTTPS Everywhere and block third-party cookies
  • Check extension permissions
  • Use a VPN if you are on public Wi-Fi
  • Regularly update your browser

πŸ“– Mozilla Guide - Secure Firefox
πŸ“– Google Guide - Secure Chrome
πŸ“– Apple Guide - Secure Safari


πŸ”‘ 2. Configuring Passkeys on PC​

Passkeys are secure alternatives to passwords, compatible with Windows Hello, macOS Touch ID, and FIDO2.

πŸ–₯️ 2.1 Activating Windows Hello on Windows 10/11​

  1. Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options
  2. Under Windows Hello, set up facial recognition, fingerprint, or a PIN
  3. Ensure your Microsoft account is synced

πŸ“– Windows Hello Guide - Microsoft

🍏 2.2 Activating Passkeys on macOS​

  1. System Preferences > Passwords
  2. Click on a compatible account and select Add a passkey
  3. Confirm with Touch ID or administrator password

πŸ“– Passkeys Guide on macOS

πŸ” 2.3 Using a FIDO2 Security Key​

If your PC does not support Windows Hello or Touch ID, you can use a USB/NFC security key:

  • YubiKey: Compatible with Windows/macOS/Linux
  • Google Titan: Compatible with Google services

πŸ“– YubiKey - FIDO2 Security Keys
πŸ“– Google Titan - Security Key


βœ… Conclusion​

By following these steps, your PC will be protected against most threats. Configuring passkeys simplifies authentication while enhancing your security. πŸš€πŸ”’