by The Computing Australia Group | 7 Tips to Keep Your
Laptop Secure
Your laptop is a vault of your life – work projects, personal photos, saved logins, client files, maybe even your digital wallet. That makes it a magnet for thieves and cybercriminals.
The good news: a handful of practical, modern safeguards can slash your risk dramatically. Below is a refreshed, professional, and actionable guide – expanded with step-by-step instructions for Windows and macOS, checklists, and an incident – response plan – so you can protect your device and the data on it.
At-a-glance checklist
- Full-disk encryption on (BitLocker / FileVault)
- Automatic, versioned backups (3-2-1 strategy)
- Physical security (locks, privacy screen, port blockers)
- Device tracking + remote lock/wipe enabled
- Reputable, updated anti-malware/EDR installed
- OS, apps, drivers and firmware set to auto-update
- Secure browsing: MFA everywhere, password manager, VPN on untrusted networks
1. Encrypt your drive (so stolen hardware stays just… hardware)
A login password isn’t enough. Without encryption, an attacker can remove the drive and read your files in minutes. Full-disk encryption turns your data into unreadable ciphertext without your key.
What to use
- Windows 10/11 Pro/Enterprise: BitLocker (uses TPM for key protection)
- Windows 10/11 Home: Device Encryption (if supported) or upgrade to Pro for BitLocker
- macOS (Monterey/Ventura/Sonoma): FileVault 2
- Linux: LUKS (via distributions’ installers)
Set it up quickly
Windows (BitLocker):
1. Start → type “Manage BitLocker.”
2. Turn on BitLocker for your system drive.
3. Save the recovery key to your work account, Azure AD, or print and store safely (never in the same laptop bag).
4. Reboot when prompted.
macOS (FileVault):
1. System Settings → Privacy & Security → FileVault.
2. Turn on BitLocker for your system drive.
3. Store the recovery key in iCloud (managed) or record it securely offline.
4. Keep the Mac plugged in while initial encryption completes.
Pro tip: Pair encryption with pre-boot authentication (strong passphrase) and SecureBoot/TPM/Touch ID/Windows Hello to harden access.
2. Back up like a pro (because prevention without recovery isn’t security)
Hardware fails. Devices get stolen. Ransomware happens. A solid backup is your safety net.
The 3-2-1 strategy (simple and resilient)
- 3 copies of your data (production + 2 backups)
- 2 different media types (e.g., external SSD + cloud)
- 1 copy off-site (cloud or another physical location)
Practical setup
- Windows 10/11 Pro/Enterprise: BitLocker (uses TPM for key protection)
- Windows 10/11 Home: Device Encryption (if supported) or upgrade to Pro for BitLocker
- macOS (Monterey/Ventura/Sonoma): FileVault 2
- Linux: LUKS (via distributions’ installers)
Windows:
- File History for versioned user files + System Image for bare-metal recovery.
- Or a third-party backup app that does automated, encrypted, versioned backups to an external drive and cloud.
macOS:
- Time Machine to an external drive for continuous, versioned backups.
- Add iCloud Drive or a reputable cloud backup service for off-site redundancy.
Rules to make it stick
- Automate backups (daily or continuous).
- Encrypt backups (at rest + in transit).
- Test restores quarterly-restore a few random files so you know it works.
- Keep at least one backup disconnected (prevents ransomware from encrypting your backups).
3. Physically lock down the device (because the easiest attack is still “pick it up and walk away”)
Most laptop theft is opportunistic. Slow the thief down and reduce the payoff.
Essentials
- Security cable lock (Kensington/Noble slot) anchored to a fixed object.
- Privacy screen to thwart shoulder surfing in public spaces.
- Port blockers for USB/SD when unattended at events.
- Laptop safe or locked drawer at home/hotel.
- Asset tags + “Property of…” labels to deter resale and aid recovery.
Do’s
- Loop the cable through immovable frames or furniture (not flimsy chair legs).
- Use locks at cafés, coworking spaces, libraries, hotels, conferences.
Don’ts
- Don’t leave your laptop charging on public power without supervision.
- Don’t store your encryption recovery key in the same bag as your laptop.
4. Enable device tracking, remote lock, and (if available) remote wipe
If the worst happens, the ability to locate and disable the machine matters.
Built-ins
- Windows: Find my device (Settings → Privacy & security → Find my device).
- macOS: Find My (System Settings → Apple ID → iCloud → Find My Mac).
Enterprise/advanced
- MDM/EDR suites (e.g., Microsoft Intune, Jamf, VMware Workspace ONE) allow remote lock/wipe, compliance checks, and geofencing.
- Third-party recovery tools (e.g., Absolute, Prey) can provide forensic info and persistent tracking.
Important: Tracking works best if you keep Wi-Fi on and device signed in to a recovery-capable account. Always file a police report before attempting recovery; do not attempt a physical retrieval yourself.
5. Install reputable anti-malware/EDR - and keep it updated
Modern threats are multi-vector: phishing, drive-by downloads, malicious USBs, cracked software. You want real-time protection, web filtering, and behavior aldetection (EDR), not just signature scans.
Baseline
- Windows: Windows Security (Defender) is excellent when fully updated, paired with SmartScreen and Controlled Folder Access (ransomware protection).
- macOS: XProtect + MRT are built-in; a reputable third-party solution can add web filters and behavioural controls.
What to look for
- Real-time protection + behavioral analysis
- Web protection/DNS filtering (malicious sites blocked)
- Ransomware rollback or protected folders
- Automatic updates multiple times per day
Avoid “free” tools from unknown vendors or pirated software-they’re common malware vectors.
6. Update everything - OS, apps, drivers, firmware (yes, firmware)
Patching closes the holes attackers actually use. Set it and forget it.
Turn on automatic updates
Windows:
- Settings → Windows Update → Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available (On).
- Enable driver and firmware updates via Windows Update or your OEM’s utility (Dell/HP/Lenovo).
- Keep browsers (Edge/Chrome/Firefox) auto-updating; remove unused plugins.
macOS:
- System Settings → General → Software Update → Automatic updates: On (include app updates).
- Update firmware/BridgeOS automatically with macOS updates.
- Use the App Store auto-updates for third-party apps.
Extra hygiene
- Uninstall software you don’t use.
- Replace legacy apps with actively maintained alternatives.
- Update BIOS/UEFI periodically via vendor tools (carefully, while plugged in).
7. Use a VPN wisely - and shore up your internet hygiene
A VPN encrypts your traffic on untrusted networks (airport/café/hotel Wi-Fi) and reduces local snooping. It does not make you anonymous, nor does it replace good browser security.
When to use a VPN
- Public or shared Wi-Fi
- Accessing company resources that require VPN
- Bypassing ISP-level snooping or hotspot client isolation
Complementary essentials
- Password manager + unique, long passwords (20+ chars)
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA) on email, bank, password manager, cloud storage, social accounts
- Secure DNS (e.g., your EDR’s DNS filter, or your ISP’s secure DNS)
- Browser hardening: auto-update, disable third-party cookies, consider an ad/tracker blocker, beware extensions bloat
- Phishing awareness: verify sender domains, hover to inspect links, be suspicious of urgency, never enter credentials after clicking an email link - navigate directly
Rule of thumb: On public networks, behave as if everyone can see your traffic unless your VPN is on and your browser is up to date.
Bonus protections that seriously raise your security ceiling
A. Turn on device login hardening
- Windows Hello (PIN with TPM, fingerprint, or face)
- Touch ID on MacBooks
- Require password on wake; set short auto-lock (2-5 minutes)
B. Lock down external media
- Disable auto-run/auto-play
- Use read-only USBs for transfers; scan removable media
C. Email and file sharing
- Use encrypted email or secure file portals for sensitive documents
- Avoid sending credentials or payment details by email - use MFA-protected portals
D. Zero trust mindset (especially for work devices)
- Don’t trust a network because it’s “office” or “home”
- Keep work and personal profiles separate
- For BYOD, enroll in your company’s MDM with clear privacy boundaries
What to do immediately if your laptop is lost or stolen
1. Change passwords for: email, password manager, banking, social, cloud storage.
2. Revoke sessions and invalidate tokens (Google/Microsoft/Apple, Slack, Teams, etc.).
3. Enable remote lock/wipe (Find My / Intune / Jamf).
4. Report to police with serial number, asset tag, last known location.
5. Notify your bank and enable extra monitoring/MFA.
6. Inform your employer/IT (if a work device) to trigger incident response and compliance steps.
7. Watch for targeted phishing referencing your loss (attackers sometimes use leaked data to craft convincing lures).
8. Rotate keys/tokens (SSH keys, API tokens) if you had local dev environments.
Prepare these details now (store safely): device model, serial number, IMEI (if cellular), asset tag, photos, purchase invoice.
Quick start: 30-minute setup plan
- 5 min: Turn on BitLocker/FileVault and record recovery key securely.
- 5 min: Enable Find My / Find my device.
- 5 min: Configure automatic updates (OS + apps + firmware).
- 5 min: Install/verify anti-malware/EDR; enable web protection.
- 5 min: Set up Time Machine/File History to an external SSD; start a cloud backup.
- 5 min: Install password manager, switch email/bank to MFA, set auto-lock to 2 minutes.
Jargon buster
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Encrypts your internet traffic between your device and a VPN server-useful on untrusted networks.
- Encryption: Scrambles data so only someone with the right key can read it.
- BitLocker/FileVault: Full-disk encryption for Windows/macOS.
- EDR: Endpoint Detection & Response - advanced, behavior-based protection.
- MFA: Multi-Factor Authentication; a second proof (code/app/biometric) after your password.
- TPM/Secure Enclave: Hardware modules that protect cryptographic keys.
- MDM: Mobile Device Management - centralised control for device policies, updates, and remote actions.
FAQ
If I already have a login password, do I still need encryption?
Yes. Without full-disk encryption, someone can boot from a USB stick or remove your drive and read data. Encryption blocks this.
Will encryption slow my laptop down?
Which is better: antivirus or EDR?
EDR (Endpoint Detection & Response) includes antivirus plus behavioral detection and response features. For individuals, a reputable AV with web protection is good; for businesses, EDR via an MSP/IT team is recommended.
Do I need a VPN at home?
Not usually if your home Wi-Fi is secured (WPA2/WPA3) and you trust your ISP. Use a VPN on public or employer-mandated networks.
What’s the single biggest win?
Turn on encryption and automatic updates, and use a password manager + MFA. Those three close the most common gaps.
