Disable These Windows Features to Minimize Your Security Risks

Windows operating systems come equipped with a variety of features designed to enhance user experience. However, many of these features can also serve as gateways for cybercriminals. For individuals who do not utilize certain functionalities, disabling them can significantly lower the potential security risks associated with Windows. This guide highlights several Windows features that are commonly unnecessary for the average user, yet could be exploited by malicious entities.

1. Disable Automatic Wi-Fi Connection for Public Networks

By default, Windows laptops are set to automatically connect to previously accessed Wi-Fi networks. This automated feature may expose your device to various network attacks, including Evil Twin and Man-in-the-Middle attacks. Even with standard public Wi-Fi security measures in place, your PC might connect to a harmful network before your security software or VPN is activated.

To mitigate these risks, it’s advisable to disable the automatic connection feature for networks you do not trust. Access Windows Settings, navigate to Network & internet → Wi-Fi → Manage known networks. Select the network in question and turn off the Connect automatically when in range option.

Turning Off Automatic Network Connection in Windows 11

Post-disablement, you will need to manually connect to Wi-Fi networks whenever you are in range.

2. Turn Off Windows WebClient

The WebClient service in Windows assists with the viewing of files over a network via the WebDAV protocol. Unfortunately, vulnerabilities in WebDAV and associated components can lead to serious security threats, including remote code execution and exploits like the Stealth Falcon attack.

If your activities do not involve network data management or using WebDAV, it’s prudent to disable this service. To do this, open the Services app by entering “services” in Windows Search.

Locate the WebClient service, right-click on it, and select Properties.

Webclient Service menu showing properties

In the properties window, click on Stop if it’s currently active, and change the Startup type to Disabled. This action ensures the service does not launch with your next system reboot.

3. Deactivate Print Spooler Service

The Print Spooler service enables your computer to manage print jobs and print settings. If printing is not a function you use, keeping this service active presents unnecessary risks and consumes system resources. It can also serve as an entry point for attackers, as illustrated by the notorious PrintNightmare vulnerability.

To enhance security, follow similar steps as you did to disable the WebClient service. Open the Services app again, find Print Spooler, open its properties, and set its Startup type to Disabled. If it is running, click Stop to cease the current process.

Consequently, if you attempt to use any printing functions, you will receive a notification indicating that the Print Spooler service is not active.

4. Turn Off Network Discovery

Network Discovery allows your computer to identify other devices on the same network and enables others to locate your PC. While it facilitates device connections for data sharing, it also opens your system up to potential exploitation. If you rarely interact with other devices on your network, you should consider disabling this feature and enabling it only when necessary.

To turn this feature off, navigate to Network & internet in Windows Settings, go to Advanced network settings → Advanced sharing settings, and disable Network discovery.

Turning Off Network Discovery in Windows 11

5. Disable Windows Script Host

Windows Script Host (WSH) is responsible for executing scripts written in.vbs and.js formats. These scripts can automate tasks and are often utilized by system administrators and some legacy applications. However, they are also frequently abused in cyber-attacks, including those involving ransomware and remote access trojans (RAT).

If your operations do not depend on.vbs or.js scripts, it is advisable to fully disable WSH to prevent potential security breaches. This can be accomplished through the Windows Registry, but caution is essential.

Important: Always back up the Registry before making any amendments, as improper changes can severely disrupt your system.

To begin, access the Windows Registry by searching for “registry”and launching the Registry Editor. Navigate to the following path:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows Script Host\Settings

Right-click within the right panel to select DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it Enabled. Open it to set the value to 0. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.

If you wish to reverse these adjustments, simply delete the Enabled value or set it back to 1.

Although the functionalities mentioned above are not inherently insecure, they have previously been exploited in malicious attacks. Therefore, it is wise to deactivate them if they are not in use to defend against zero-day vulnerabilities. Nonetheless, it is essential to pair these security measures with other strategies to secure your Windows environment.

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