What is one effective way to protect your computer from hackers and malicious software?

Using a firewall, like the one that comes with Windows, is a critical line of defense against unauthorized access and malicious software. A firewall monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. By setting up these rules, the firewall can block potentially harmful connections and filter traffic based on various criteria, such as IP addresses and ports. This proactive measure helps in identifying and preventing unwanted access attempts, ultimately protecting sensitive data and the overall integrity of the system.

While other choices have their merits, they do not provide the comprehensive protection that a firewall offers. For example, a virtual private network (VPN) can help secure your internet connection, but it primarily focuses on privacy and anonymity rather than actively defending against threats. Similarly, installing a web browser extension might enhance specific features or block ads, but it won't offer robust security against broader threats. Disabling all updates is counterproductive, as updates frequently contain crucial security patches that protect against newly discovered vulnerabilities. Therefore, a firewall is an effective and essential component of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy.