Windows Security app Archives

Winsage

December 17, 2024

Windows 11 hidden toggle reveals how to turn on or off Administrator protection

Microsoft is enhancing Windows 11 security by enforcing a TPM 2.0 requirement and testing a feature called Administrator protection. This feature limits administrator rights access to specific events and is currently hidden in the Windows Security app. Users can enable it to grant temporary administrator rights, requiring a PIN or preferred authentication method. When a task needing elevated privileges is initiated, a temporary admin token is generated and deleted after the task is completed, reducing vulnerability to malware. To enable Administrator protection, users can toggle it on in the Windows Security app or use the Group Policy Editor to configure settings. Microsoft is expected to enable this feature by default in future updates.

Tech Optimizer

December 12, 2024

The Best Way to Remove Windows Security Permanently

Microsoft offers Windows Security for Windows 11 and Windows Defender for Windows 10, both providing integrated security solutions focused on virus detection and protection against malware, phishing, and ransomware. Users often consider third-party antivirus options for enhanced protection. Windows Security has drawbacks, including false positives that can lead to the removal of legitimate applications and significant resource consumption affecting performance on older devices. Users contemplating permanent removal of Windows Security may do so for reasons such as preferring third-party solutions with additional features, performance issues, and frustration from false alarms. Before removing Windows Security, users should ensure they have an alternative antivirus solution ready, understand that they will lose automatic updates for threats, and be cautious of improper removal methods that could cause system instability. Methods to disable Windows Security include using the Local Group Policy Editor, modifying the Windows Registry, disabling Tamper Protection, or using the Windows Defender Remover tool available on GitHub. Alternatives to complete removal include adding exclusions for specific files, disabling real-time protection, or installing a third-party antivirus that automatically disables Windows Security.

Winsage

October 16, 2024

8 ways to fine-tune Windows 11 for optimal performance without the bloat

- Change the power mode settings to High performance for a speed boost, especially in resource-intensive tasks. - Run antivirus scans to eliminate viruses and malware that may slow down the computer. - Disable search indexing to free up system resources if the search function is rarely used. - Increase the page file size to provide a virtual memory boost for systems with limited RAM. - Limit bandwidth for Windows updates to ensure responsive internet speeds. - Disable unnecessary startup tasks to streamline the boot process and improve overall performance. - Use Efficiency mode in Task Manager to reduce CPU allocation for background apps, but consider disabling it for important applications. - Utilize Win11Debloat to remove unnecessary pre-installed applications and features, enhancing system performance.

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

September 28, 2024

How to set up a senior-friendly Windows computer

Seniors can enhance their experience on a Windows computer by making several adjustments: 1. Customize the display for better visibility: - Adjust the text size: Press Win + I, navigate to Accessibility > Text size, and use the slider to increase text size. - Modify the screen resolution: Open Settings (Win + I), go to System > Display, and select a comfortable display resolution. 2. Simplify navigation: - Pin programs to the taskbar: Pin essential applications to the taskbar or Start menu and disable unnecessary startup programs. 3. Optimize the mouse and keyboard: - Adjust mouse settings by navigating to Bluetooth & devices > Mouse in the Settings app to customize pointer size or color. 4. Adjust the security settings: - Install antivirus software, enable Windows Defender, and regularly review security settings in the Windows Security app.

Winsage

September 1, 2024

How to reset the Windows Security app to fix problems on Windows 11 and 10

The Windows Security app is essential for managing security features on Windows 10 and 11, including Microsoft Defender Antivirus, Device Security, and Firewall. Users may experience issues such as failure to launch, crashes, or error messages, which can often be resolved by resetting the app through the Settings app or PowerShell. For Windows 11, resetting the app via the Settings app involves opening Settings, selecting System, navigating to "System components," clicking the three-dot menu next to Windows Security, selecting "Advanced options," and then either clicking Repair or Reset. The PowerShell method requires running PowerShell as an administrator and executing the command: Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.Windows.SecHealthUI | Reset-AppxPackage. For Windows 10, users can reset the app through the Settings app by searching for Windows Security, right-clicking it, and choosing App settings, then clicking the Reset button. The PowerShell method involves running PowerShell as an administrator and executing the command: $manifest = (Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.Windows.SecHealthUI).InstallLocation + 'AppxManifest.xml' ; Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register $manifest.

Winsage

August 31, 2024

Don’t use your Windows PC without using these security settings

Windows operating systems are vulnerable to malware due to their widespread use. To enhance security on a Microsoft PC, users can make adjustments without additional software. Key security settings for Windows 11 include: 1. Enable virus protection: Access the Windows Security app to review and schedule virus scans. 2. Secure your account: Use Windows Hello for facial or fingerprint recognition and enable Dynamic lock. 3. Fire up the firewall: Ensure the firewall is activated for all network types and manage app permissions. 4. Apps and browsers: Activate all toggles under Reputation-based protection and confirm settings in Exploit protection. 5. Secure boot and drive encryption: Enable Secure boot and consider BitLocker for drive encryption. 6. Check permissions: Review and adjust data access permissions in the Privacy & security settings. 7. Find my device: Enable this feature to locate a lost device and remotely lock it. 8. Update your PC: Regularly check for and install updates to maintain security. 9. Privacy protection: Use third-party applications to limit data collection and enhance privacy. These measures can significantly improve the security and privacy of a Windows PC.

Winsage

August 15, 2024

Windows 11 Insider Canary Channel build 27686 has the new Windows Sandbox Client preview

Microsoft has released Windows 11 build number 27686 for Windows Insider program participants in the Canary Channel. This update features a preview of the Windows Sandbox Client, which includes runtime clipboard redirection, audio and video input control, and folder sharing capabilities with the host. Users can access these features via a new icon in the application. Enhancements include optimizations for battery performance, a new detach virtual hard disk button in Settings, periodic network tests for performance diagnostics, and an increased FAT32 size limit to 2TB. Several issues have been fixed, including problems with Dev Drive VHDs, battery icon synchronization on the lock screen, and display issues in the Windows Security app. Known issues include potential loss of Windows Hello PIN and biometrics for Copilot+ PCs transitioning to the Canary Channel and an issue with the emoji panel closing unexpectedly.

Winsage

July 25, 2024

9 ways to keep your Windows 11 PC running smoothly

Installing Windows updates is important for protection from threats, bug fixes, and new features. It is recommended to check for updates on the second Tuesday of every month to avoid unexpected reboots.