How to make your Surface device even more secure

Your Microsoft Surface Laptop contains some of your most valuable private information, like access to your bank accounts and passwords to your email. Surface devices come packed with world-class security features, but that doesn’t mean you should let your guard down when it comes to PC security. Our top cybersecurity tips can help you keep your information private and your device safe.

Whether you own a Surface Go 3 or Surface Pro 9, securing your device is one of the best ways to safeguard your private information. For example, every layer of Surface Pro 9 from chip to cloud is maintained by Microsoft. When your Surface device has Windows 11, your cloud files are secured, and you’ll have access to password-free Windows Hello biometrics sign-in. Learn how to avoid cybersecurity breaches with just a few simple changes to your digital routine, such as:

1. Set complex, unique passwords

The first step to securing your device and online accounts is to update your passwords. It’s easy to get complacent about passwords and use the same combination of words across all of your accounts. However, if one of your passwords gets leaked in a data breach, all of your accounts may be at risk.

Avoid using words or number combinations related to your personal information, as this makes it easier for people to guess your passwords. Birthdays, names, and important places should always be avoided. Websites typically have their own requirements for passwords, but as a general rule of thumb, try to use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols in each password. If you have trouble remembering complex passwords, try using a password manager that makes it easy for you to access them.

2. Install and update antivirus software

Surface devices come with powerful antivirus software already downloaded, making your security as easy as possible. You’ll want to turn on automatic updates to make sure the software can detect and remove any new viruses.

3. Use a VPN in public

Coffee shops and libraries help make a long day of studying or working from home speed by, but they can also leave your device susceptible to cyberattacks. When using public Wi-Fi, use a VPN to hide your IP address and encrypt your web traffic. Don’t trade your private information for the convenience of quickly logging into a public Wi-Fi network.

Using a secure browser like Microsoft Edge is another good safety precaution for your device.

4. Use multi-factor authentication

While strong passwords should be the first layer of protection for your accounts, adding an extra layer never hurts. Multi-factor authentication, like Microsoft Authenticator, requires two or more credentials to verify your identity. Typically, this includes a password and a code sent to your email or texted to your phone. If someone guesses your password or it’s leaked in a data breach, multi-factor authentication keeps others from accessing your accounts. Add this layer of security to your most important accounts, like email or bank accounts.

5. Protect your device

The physical security of your device matters just as much as your cybersecurity practices. It might seem obvious but remember to never leave your Surface in public spaces where it could be stolen or tampered with. If your device is ever lost or stolen, find its location using Find My Device. While it won’t protect your device from security risks, a hard case or laptop sleeve helps prevent physical damage if you accidentally drop your Surface.

Microsoft Surface devices have been built on a unified approach to firmware protection. The devices’ designs, software, updates, and built-in security features help keep you and your personal information protected. Windows Hello uses biometrics, like face recognition, to ensure that you’re the only person who can access your device. Your Surface device comes with Firmware TPM 2.0 that adds more layers of protection against malware. In addition to these built-in security features, following security best practices also helps prevent dangerous breaches to your online accounts. By following these PC security tips, you’ll make the most of your Surface’s top-notch security features.