How to Enable Windows 11 Built-In Ransomware Protection

In an era where digital security is paramount, protecting your personal data from ransomware attacks is crucial. Ransomware can encrypt your files, making them inaccessible without a decryption key, which is often held for ransom by cybercriminals. Fortunately, Windows 11 users have a built-in feature at their disposal to safeguard against such threats: Controlled Folder Access within Microsoft Defender Antivirus.

Here's a step-by-step guide to enable and configure this essential security feature:

1. **Open Windows Security**: You can do this by searching for 'Windows Security' in the Start menu or by navigating through the Settings app under 'Privacy & Security'.

2. **Navigate to Virus & Threat Protection**: Once in the Windows Security dashboard, click on 'Virus & Threat Protection'.

3. **Manage Ransomware Protection**: Scroll down to find the 'Ransomware Protection' section and click on 'Manage ransomware protection'.

4. **Enable Controlled Folder Access**: Toggle the switch to turn on 'Controlled folder access'. This will activate the protection feature, monitoring changes that apps make to files in protected folders.

5. **Configure Protected Folders**: By default, folders like Documents, Pictures, Videos, and Desktop are protected. You can add more folders by clicking on 'Protected folders' and selecting 'Add a protected folder'.

6. **Allow Trusted Apps**: If you have trustworthy apps that need to make changes to protected folders, you can allow them through by clicking on 'Allow an app through Controlled folder access'.

7. **Review Blocked History**: To check if any malicious or unrecognized apps have been blocked from accessing your files, you can view the history under 'Block history'.

8. **Disable Protection (If Necessary)**: If you need to turn off ransomware protection for any reason, you can do so by toggling off the 'Controlled folder access' switch.

By following these steps, you can significantly enhance the security of your Windows 11 system against ransomware attacks. It's a simple yet effective way to keep your digital life secure.

Remember, while enabling ransomware protection is a strong defensive measure, it's also important to maintain regular backups of your data and stay vigilant against phishing attempts and suspicious downloads. Combining these practices with Windows 11's built-in features will provide a robust security posture for your digital environment.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the comprehensive guides provided by experts in the field. Stay safe and secure!

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