October 14, 2026 · by David Gilbert · 3 min read · Security & Scams
Good computer security doesn't have to cost anything. While there are paid tools worth having, some of the most effective protections are completely free — they just require a few minutes of your time. If you'd like to make your computer meaningfully safer today without spending a cent, here's where to start.
Turn On Automatic Updates
This is the single most important free thing you can do. Software updates frequently fix security holes that criminals actively exploit. By switching on automatic updates for your operating system and programs, you close these gaps as soon as fixes are released, without having to remember. An up-to-date computer is a dramatically harder target than one running old software.
Use the Security Tools You Already Have
Modern computers come with capable built-in security software that's free and often perfectly sufficient for most home users. Make sure it's switched on and running. You don't necessarily need to buy a separate product — what matters is that protection is active and kept up to date. Check that yours is enabled and doing its job.
Set Strong, Unique Passwords
Reusing the same password everywhere is one of the biggest risks there is, and fixing it costs nothing. Give your important accounts — email and banking especially — strong, unique passwords. A free password manager can generate and remember them for you, so you only need to recall one master password. This alone shuts down a huge proportion of account break-ins.
Switch On Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication adds a second step to logging in — usually a code from your phone — so that even if someone steals your password, they still can't get in. It's free, available on most important accounts, and one of the most powerful protections going. Turn it on for your email and banking first, then everywhere else that offers it.
Lock Your Screen
A simple screen lock with a password or PIN means that if your computer is lost, stolen, or simply left unattended, your information stays protected. Set your computer to lock automatically after a few minutes of inactivity. It's a small habit that prevents a lot of potential trouble.
Be Sceptical of Links and Attachments
The most expensive security mistakes start with a click. Being cautious about unexpected email attachments and links — even ones that appear to come from someone you know — costs nothing and prevents the majority of malware and scams. When in doubt, don't click; verify through another channel first.
Back Up Your Files
Finally, a backup is your safety net if security ever fails. Free options exist for keeping a copy of your most important files safe, so a virus or ransomware attack doesn't mean losing everything. Even a copy on an external drive is far better than nothing.
Want a Security Check-Up?
Review What Has Access to Your Accounts
One free step people rarely think of is reviewing which apps and services you've granted access to over the years. We all click "sign in with" and "allow access" and then forget about it. Periodically checking the connected apps on your main accounts, and removing anything you no longer use or recognise, closes off a surprising number of potential weak points. It costs nothing but a few minutes, and it's a genuinely worthwhile spring-clean for your digital security.
If you'd like someone to make sure your computer's defences are properly set up — or you're worried something's not right — Your Local Tech Solutions can give your system a thorough security check. Get in touch for friendly, jargon-free help.
