Windows Includes Built-in Ransomware Protection: Here’s How to Turn It On

Ransomware is a particularly vicious type of malware that encrypts your files, rendering them inaccessible unless you pay a ransom to the attacker. In short, your valuable data is held hostage, and if you’re unprepared, you may find yourself paying large sums to retrieve it. The good news is that Windows includes built-in ransomware protection, and enabling it is a simple yet effective defense. In this article, we’ll provide a detailed guide on how to enable ransomware protection in Windows, and why it’s crucial to your data security.

What Is Ransomware and Why Should You Care?

Ransomware attacks have become an increasingly prevalent threat to both individuals and businesses. Hackers use sophisticated tactics to infiltrate systems and lock down essential files, demanding payments to unlock them. Even recent high-profile incidents, like the attacks on major casinos by the Scattered Spider ransomware group, illustrate just how damaging ransomware can be, causing millions of dollars in damage and loss of critical data.

The best way to defend against ransomware is through proactive measures. While common sense practices such as avoiding suspicious downloads and unsafe websites are crucial, having software-based protection provides an essential safety net. Modern antivirus programs typically offer tools to restrict app access to vulnerable folders, and Windows' built-in antivirus, Microsoft Defender, offers a similar feature that helps you prevent ransomware attacks before they can wreak havoc on your data.

How to Turn On Ransomware Protection in Windows

Windows offers a built-in feature called "Controlled Folder Access," designed to protect your files from unauthorized changes, particularly by ransomware. The following guide will show you how to enable ransomware protection through Windows Security.

Step 1: Open Windows Security

The first step is to open the Windows Security app. You can access it through any of the following methods:

• Press Alt + Spacebar, type in "Windows Security," and press Enter.
• Open the Start Menu, type in "Windows Security," and press Enter.
• Open the Settings App, then navigate to Windows Security in the left-hand pane.

Once you have the Windows Security app open, you’ll have access to a variety of security settings for your PC, including ransomware protection.

Step 2: Locate and Manage Ransomware Protection Settings

With the Windows Security app open, proceed as follows:

1. Click on "Virus & Threat Protection." Here, you’ll find a range of options to help keep your computer safe from different types of threats.
2. Scroll Down and Select "Manage Ransomware Protection." This option is located at the bottom of the screen.
3. Enable "Controlled Folder Access." Controlled Folder Access restricts which apps can access key folders on your PC, such as your default OneDrive, Documents, Pictures, Videos, Music, and Favorites folders. By default, this feature is turned off—you’ll need to manually toggle it on.

Controlled Folder Access prevents unauthorized apps from accessing these key folders, limiting the ability of ransomware to make harmful changes. This setting helps create an additional layer of security against malicious encryption of your data.

Step 3: Adding Additional Folders to Protected Areas

While Controlled Folder Access secures essential Windows folders, you can also add additional folders to the protection list:

1. In the "Controlled Folder Access" settings, click on "Protected Folders".
2. Click on "Add a Protected Folder" to specify additional directories that you want to protect.

This ensures that any files saved in these directories are also shielded from unauthorized access, providing broader coverage.

Step 4: Manage Apps Allowed Through Controlled Folder Access

Some legitimate apps, including software that you use every day, might need access to folders protected by Controlled Folder Access. To avoid any disruptions:

1. Click on "Allow an App Through Controlled Folder Access."
2. Add apps that you trust to the list, ensuring they can still function correctly and access your files.

For instance, Microsoft Office programs are automatically allowed to open and modify files in protected folders, but other apps may require manual approval to gain access.

Step 5: Enable Ransomware Data Recovery Through OneDrive

One effective backup strategy to protect against ransomware is leveraging cloud storage. Windows automatically provides ransomware data recovery features through OneDrive:

• Ensure that you are logged into OneDrive, either by connecting a Microsoft account to your entire Windows PC or just to the OneDrive app.
• Check Ransomware Protection > Ransomware Data Recovery to confirm that your data is being backed up to OneDrive.

Using OneDrive for backups gives you the option to recover your files in the event of an attack, and it allows you to undo the changes made by ransomware.

Step 6: Maintain Offline Backups for Complete Security

While OneDrive is an excellent solution for online backups, offline backups are also necessary for complete ransomware protection. A backup copy of your data that is kept offline cannot be encrypted by ransomware in the event of an attack.

• Use an external hard drive or other offline media to make regular backups.
• Disconnect the storage device after backing up to prevent ransomware from accessing it.

An offline backup gives you an extra layer of security and peace of mind knowing that even if your PC is compromised, your essential data is safe.

Should You Enable Ransomware Protection in Windows?

The decision to turn on ransomware protection ultimately comes down to balancing security and convenience. Enabling Controlled Folder Access can make your PC significantly more secure, but it may introduce some inconvenience—especially for gamers and creative professionals. For example, some game save files and creative projects might be blocked from modifying data in your Documents folder.

However, the inconvenience is minimal and manageable. If you encounter issues, you can either:

1. Add the specific app to the access list in the Controlled Folder Access settings.
2. Store certain files in unprotected folders and manage their backups using third-party software.

In the end, the added security of Controlled Folder Access far outweighs any inconvenience, particularly if you are dealing with irreplaceable files.

Our Recommendation for Best Antivirus Software

While Microsoft Defender provides excellent built-in security features, you may wish to consider third-party antivirus software that offers additional protection. One option we recommend is Norton 360 Deluxe, which combines robust malware defense with a VPN, password manager, and dark web monitoring for personal information. This suite not only protects against ransomware but also simplifies staying safe online by consolidating multiple security features into a single package.

Final Thoughts on Ransomware Protection

Protecting your PC from ransomware requires a multi-layered approach. While practicing safe browsing habits and being careful with downloads are essential components, Windows' built-in ransomware protection offers an extra layer of defense that can make a crucial difference in protecting your data. The Controlled Folder Access feature allows you to restrict unauthorized access to important files, and automatic cloud backups via OneDrive help ensure you can recover from an attack without paying a ransom.

By using Windows Security features effectively and maintaining offline backups, you can significantly reduce the risk of ransomware damaging your data. For those looking for an even more comprehensive security solution, investing in a reliable third-party antivirus software like Norton 360 Deluxe can help you stay protected from a wider variety of online threats.