Windows 11/10 brings in one minor but very crucial change to Ransomware Protection in Windows Security. This feature made sure that ransomware and other malware were blocked from hijacking your device and data. It also included settings which once enabled protects files, folders, and memory areas on your device from authorized changes by unfriendly applications.
Allow Apps through Controlled Folder Access
To allow desktop software through Controlled Folder Access, do the following:
- Open Windows Security and switch to Virus and threat protection.
- Scroll down till you find Ransomware Protection. Click on Manage ransomware protection.
- Turn on this feature if it’s turned off.
- Then click on Allow apps through Controlled folder access.
- Here you can choose apps where were previously blocked or you can add new ones using the menu.
- This will open a file picker window, and you will have to browse through Program files to find the exe of the program, and then select it.
As of now, I don’t see any support for the Microsoft Store apps, though.
This will make sure that you can give access to programs you trust. Some Programs which I often use like Dropbox, Microsoft Word, etc. should be able to access them without any trust issue.
In case one of your programs is blocked by Controlled Folder feature, then you can come here, and unblock it. There is no way to block apps right now.
You should know that Ransomware can get into your PC from almost anywhere. The website, email and even from your favorite app if you are not careful. So make sure to give access to programs which you trust. All your files are backed up on OneDrive connected with the Microsoft account on your PC. So when you get a warning, you can always restore files.
