Security is easier when you can pick the right tool for the job. Each module below is a practical playbook with small steps and clear stopping points—no scare tactics, no heavy installs. Grab the one that fits your situation and get back to work when the symptom stops.
Turn on automatic updates and schedule bigger patches when a few restarts won’t interrupt your day. After installation, restart and run a quick smoke test on the features you rely on. If something feels off, try one more reboot before deeper steps.
Match access to intent. Review camera, mic, precise location, contacts, and files for your top-used apps first. Hide sensitive lock-screen previews and keep “special access” (overlays, admin rights) limited to a tiny, trusted set.
Installs and caching need breathing room. Remove old installers and exports, archive large media to dated folders, and keep 10–20% free space. If the device is warm, give it a minute to cool before long installs.
Many page issues are profile issues. Test in a private window or fresh profile to bypass cached data and extensions. Keep a lean add-on set and clear site storage quarterly for heavy services.
Too many auto-launch apps slow everything down. Trim your startup list and re-enable items one at a time until performance stays steady. Keep overlays to essentials only.
Win signal: boot time and battery drain normalize.
Backups only matter when they restore. Keep two copies—cloud + local drive—and run a tiny restore now (one photo or doc). Label drives, store them safely, and test decryption keys regularly if you encrypt backups.
Usually not. Built-in options and these playbooks solve most everyday issues without extra tools.
No. It changes how the system starts; your files remain.
Likely a local network rule or congestion. The A/B network test helps isolate it quickly.
Leave automatic updates on, keep extensions lean, maintain storage headroom, and verify a tiny restore monthly.