Overview:
This guide introduces a free and lightweight security solution that combines the strengths of ASUS router-based protection and Microsoft’s built-in Windows Defender. It provides dual-layer defense without relying on third-party antivirus software. Ideal for home users, freelancers, and remote workers.
Why Two Layers of Protection?
– ASUS router (via AiProtection by Trend Micro): Blocks threats at the network gateway level before they reach your devices.
– Windows Defender (built into Windows 10/11): Detects, blocks, and removes threats that may exist locally or enter through USBs, email attachments, etc.
Together, these tools create a strong defense: ASUS guards the door, and Defender protects what’s inside.
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Step 1: Configure ASUS Router Security (AiProtection)
1. Open a browser and go to: http://router.asus.com or http://192.168.50.1
2. Log in with the admin username and password (usually on the back of the router).
3. Navigate to “AiProtection” > Enable all protection options:
– Malicious Site Blocking
– Two-Way Intrusion Prevention System (IPS)
– Infected Device Prevention and Blocking
– DNS-over-TLS (if available)
4. Enable Notifications: This allows alerts if any connected device behaves suspiciously (e.g., connects to a malicious IP).
Effect: Your network is protected from malware, phishing websites, and external attacks before reaching your PC or mobile devices.
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Step 2: Enable Advanced Features in Windows Defender
Why?
By default, some advanced Defender protections are disabled. We use PowerShell to enable key features like ransomware protection, behavior monitoring, and cloud-based threat intelligence.
How to Do It:
1. Open PowerShell as Administrator:
– Click Start, search “PowerShell”
– Right-click > Run as Administrator
2. Paste and run the following script:
Set-MpPreference -MAPSReporting Advanced
Set-MpPreference -SubmitSamplesConsent 1
Set-MpPreference -DisableRealtimeMonitoring $false
Set-MpPreference -EnableBehaviorMonitoring $true
Set-MpPreference -EnableNetworkProtection Enabled
Set-MpPreference -EnableControlledFolderAccess Enabled
Add-MpPreference -ControlledFolderAccessProtectedFolders “C:\Users\$env:USERNAME\Documents”
Add-MpPreference -ControlledFolderAccessProtectedFolders “C:\Users\$env:USERNAME\Pictures”
Add-MpPreference -ControlledFolderAccessProtectedFolders “D:\ImportantData”
Write-Host “✅ Advanced Defender features enabled.”
Explanation of Each Line:
– Enables Microsoft Active Protection Service (MAPS) for real-time cloud protection.
– Allows automatic submission of suspicious samples.
– Ensures real-time protection is ON.
– Enables behavior-based detection (critical for unknown threats).
– Enables protection against web-based and network threats.
– Turns on Controlled Folder Access: protects key folders from ransomware.
– Adds personal folders to be monitored (Documents, Pictures, custom D drive folder).
Effect: Local protections are upgraded; ransomware, phishing, and unknown threats are much less likely to succeed.
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Step 3: Automatically Update Virus Definitions on Startup
Why?
Even with real-time protection, if virus definitions are outdated, threats may slip through. This task ensures Defender gets the latest signatures every time the PC boots.
Steps:
1. Open Task Scheduler (search in Start Menu).
2. Click “Create Basic Task” > Name it: DefenderUpdateAtStartup
3. Trigger: When the computer starts
4. Action:
– Program/script: C:\Program Files\Windows Defender\MpCmdRun.exe
– Add arguments: -SignatureUpdate
5. After creation, right-click the task > Properties > check “Run with highest privileges”
Effect: Ensures your virus definitions are always current, even if you don’t leave the PC on all day.
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Verification:
– In Windows Security > Virus & Threat Protection, check if the definition version matches the current date.
– Manually run the scheduled task to ensure it completes without error.
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Final Result:
You now have:
– Network layer protection (ASUS router blocks external threats)
– Endpoint protection (Windows Defender monitors everything running locally)
– Automatic signature updates (minimizing risk from new viruses)
This solution is effective, light on resources, and compatible with almost any home/office setup.
FAQ:
Q: Will this slow down my PC?
A: No. Both systems are efficient and low-overhead.
Q: Do I still need another antivirus?
A: Not unless you’re in a high-risk environment. For most users, this setup is sufficient.
Q: Will it cause software conflicts?
A: No. These are built-in features, officially supported by Microsoft and ASUS.
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