controlled folder access Archives

Tech Optimizer

April 12, 2025

I abandoned third-party antivirus tools, and here’s what I do instead

The author has transitioned from using third-party antivirus solutions to relying on Windows Security, which is built into Windows 10 and 11, due to its effectiveness and lack of cost. They emphasize the importance of keeping Windows Security updated and performing regular virus scans for added peace of mind. Ransomware protection features, such as Controlled Folder Access, are highlighted as essential. The Microsoft PC Manager app is recommended for optimizing system performance and security. The author advocates for good security hygiene, including avoiding suspicious emails and enabling two-factor authentication, as effective practices to maintain security without third-party antivirus software.

Tech Optimizer

April 10, 2025

6 overlooked security practices I implemented at home and I regret not using sooner

- Safeguarding technology is crucial in the digital age due to potential threats from various devices. - Two-factor authentication (2FA) enhances online account security by requiring a second code sent to a phone, email, or authentication app. - Biometric verification methods and hardware authentication devices like YubiKeys can further enhance security. - Backup codes should be printed when setting up 2FA, and passkeys offer a passwordless solution for securing accounts. - Ransomware can lock users out of data until a ransom is paid, and Windows 10 and 11 have a feature called Controlled Folder Access (CFA) to protect essential folders. - Windows Security provides baseline protection for PCs, and users should regularly check for updates and conduct manual scans. - Microsoft's PC Manager utility enhances system security by offering features for storage and app management alongside virus scanning. - Securing web browsers is vital, with unique settings available in browsers like Microsoft Edge, Firefox, and Chrome to improve privacy and security. - Regularly clearing browsing history and keeping browsers updated helps mitigate risks from malware and phishing attacks. - Securing Wi-Fi routers involves changing the default admin password and SSID, using strong encryption like WPA3, and regularly updating firmware. - Custom firmware like DD-WRT or OpenWrt can enhance router security and functionality.

Winsage

October 9, 2024

10 Windows 11 security settings to keep your PC safe

Windows 11 includes several built-in security features designed to protect users from threats: - Microsoft Defender: A built-in antivirus program that provides real-time protection against threats and can perform various types of system scans. - Firewall & Network Protection: Monitors incoming and outgoing traffic to prevent unauthorized access, customizable for specific applications. - App & Browser Control: Utilizes SmartScreen to check URLs and downloads against a database of known threats, blocking harmful installations. - Core Isolation: Adds protection for sensitive processes using virtualization-based security features like Memory integrity. - Ransomware Protection: Shields files and folders from unauthorized access and provides recovery options through Controlled folder access. - BitLocker Encryption: An encryption tool available on Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions that secures hard disk data. - Secure Boot: A BIOS-level feature that ensures Windows boots only with trusted software, preventing boot process hijacking. - Dynamic Lock: Automatically locks the device when a paired Bluetooth-enabled device goes out of range. - Windows Hello: Allows biometric authentication for logging in using facial recognition, fingerprints, or a PIN. - User Account Control (UAC): Prompts for confirmation when actions requiring administrator-level permission are initiated, helping to prevent unauthorized changes.

Winsage

October 5, 2024

Windows includes built-in Ransomware Protection. How to turn it on

Ransomware encrypts files and demands payment for their release, posing a threat to both personal and corporate systems. Windows offers built-in ransomware protection, and regular backups of critical files are essential for risk reduction. Ransomware can disrupt operations significantly, as evidenced by incidents involving groups like Scattered Spider affecting Las Vegas casinos. To protect against ransomware, users should enable Controlled Folder Access, back up essential files regularly, be cautious with email attachments, and keep antivirus software and operating systems updated. To activate Windows' ransomware protection, users can navigate to Settings > Update & Security, open Windows Security, select Virus & threat protection, and toggle Controlled folder access to "On." This setting restricts app access to default folders, although some applications, like Microsoft Office, are trusted by default and can modify files in these locations.

Winsage

October 3, 2024

Microsoft offers built-in ransomware protection for Windows PCs

Microsoft has introduced built-in ransomware protection for Windows PCs, which requires users to utilize OneDrive for data backup. The protection mechanism includes a feature called Controlled folder access to shield files from unauthorized changes. Currently, this service is offered at no cost, but there may be potential future charges. The protection is not infallible, and users are advised to remain vigilant.

Winsage

July 26, 2024

14 must-know Windows 11 security and privacy settings

- A screen lock is a must-have for laptops, and there are different options such as fingerprint, facial recognition, password, or PIN. - To make login more secure, users can enable high-security login methods like Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts. - Users can automatically lock their computer by setting up time intervals for requiring login again or enabling Dynamic lock with Bluetooth devices. - Users can skip the login and use a local account to reduce monitoring. - Users can turn off Windows Ad ID to prevent customized advertising. - Users can limit the information Windows can access to protect privacy but may lose some functionality. - Users can control app permissions for things like camera, microphone, and location through App Authorization. - Users can restrict or turn off app sharing between devices. - Users can opt out of Device Usage feature to prevent Microsoft from customizing the system and advertising to their habits. - Users can disable Microsoft 'tips' that may be perceived as advertising. - Windows 11 has built-in security features like Windows Defender for virus protection and can protect against extortion trojans. - Users can find a missing computer by enabling the Find my device feature and using account.microsoft.com/devices to locate and control the device remotely.

Winsage

June 11, 2024

Windows Defender antivirus: 5 settings to change first

- Windows Defender now blocks potentially unwanted apps automatically. - Windows Defender performs a full system scan once a day and sends unnecessary notifications. - The system tray icon for Windows Defender can be removed to reduce clutter. - Setting up exclusions in Windows Defender can speed up performance. - Core isolation is a security setting in Windows Security that can protect system processes from malware. - Even if another antivirus program is preferred, Windows Defender will automatically stop real-time scanning when another antivirus is installed.