Ransomware is a growing threat to our digital world. It’s a type of malware that encrypts your files or blocks you from using your computer until you pay a ransom. The good news is, Windows 11 comes with built-in features to help protect your system against these threats. Let’s dive into how you can leverage these features to secure your system.
Understanding Ransomware
Ransomware can infiltrate your system through various means, including visiting unsafe websites, opening suspicious email attachments, or clicking on malicious links in social media posts. Once it infects your system, it encrypts your files and demands a ransom to unlock them. This can be a significant threat to both personal and professional data.
Windows 11 Ransomware Protection Features
Windows 11 offers several features to protect your system against ransomware. Here are some of the key features:
1. Windows Security
Windows Security is a built-in antivirus and anti-malware tool in Windows 11. It provides real-time protection against various threats, including ransomware. Make sure it’s turned on to keep your system secure.
2. Controlled Folder Access
Controlled Folder Access is a feature that protects your data by only allowing trusted apps to access protected folders. This feature is especially useful in protecting your documents and information from ransomware. In a ransomware attack, your files can get encrypted and held hostage. With Controlled Folder Access in place, a notification appears on the computer where an app attempted to make changes to a file in a protected folder.
3. Regular Updates
Keeping your system up-to-date is crucial in maintaining its security. Regular updates often include patches for known vulnerabilities that ransomware and other malware might exploit.
4. File History and OneDrive
Backing up your files can be a lifesaver in the event of a ransomware attack. Windows 11 allows you to back up your files with File History. You can also store important files on Microsoft OneDrive, which includes built-in ransomware detection and recovery.
Steps to Enable Ransomware Protection
Here are the steps to enable ransomware protection in Windows 11:
- Open the
Windows Security appon your Windows 11 device. - Select ‘
Virus & threat protection.‘ - Under ‘
Ransomware protection,’ select ‘Manage ransomware protection.‘ - If Controlled Folder Access is turned off, you’ll need to turn it on. Select ‘
Protected folders.‘ - To add a folder, select ‘
+ Add a protected folder.‘ To remove a folder, select it, and then select ‘Remove.‘
Remember, Windows system folders are protected by default, and you cannot remove them from the list.
Subfolders are also included in protection when you add a new folder to the list.
Ransomware is a serious threat, but with the right precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk. By leveraging the built-in features of Windows 11, keeping your system updated, and practicing safe online habits, you can keep your data secure. Remember, the best defense against ransomware is a proactive approach to security. Stay safe out there!
