How to protect my first stock portfolio from major losses?

Hello!

I'm pretty new to investing and just opened my first ISA account with £2000. I've been reading about diversification and trying not to put all my eggs in one basket, but I'm still nervous about potential market crashes or big drops.

Currently looking at spreading my money across some major tech companies (like Apple and Microsoft) and maybe some index funds, but I'm confused about what else I should do to protect my investments. Should I buy bonds (if so which ones and where in the UK), gold, cash isa, other assets?

Would really appreciate any tips from more experienced investors on how to manage risk when you're just starting out. What strategies do you use to protect your portfolio from major losses? Thank you!