How to Enable Ransomware Protection in Windows

Step by step

1. 30 sec

   Open Windows Security

   Press the Windows key on your keyboard and type Windows Security. Select the app from the search results to launch the dashboard.

2. 30 sec

   Access Virus & threat protection

   Within the Windows Security home screen, click on Virus & threat protection. This menu manages your active security features and scan settings.

3. 30 sec

   Locate Ransomware protection

   Scroll to the bottom of the page until you find the Ransomware protection section. Click on Manage ransomware protection to view the advanced options.

4. 15 sec

   Enable Controlled folder access

   Locate the toggle switch labeled Controlled folder access. Click the switch to toggle it from Off to On.

   Note: A User Account Control prompt will appear; click Yes to confirm the changes.
5. 1 min

   Review protected folders

   Click on Protected folders to confirm which directories are currently monitored. You can click Add a protected folder to manually include specific drives or directories that contain sensitive data.

   Note: System folders are protected by default and cannot be removed.
6. 1 min

   Allow trusted applications

   If legitimate software is blocked from saving files, click Allow an app through Controlled folder access. Click Add an allowed app and select the executable file for the software you wish to authorize.

   Note: Only add applications you trust to modify files in protected folders.