The ransomware threat isn’t going away anytime soon, which is bad news for computer users everywhere. Fortunately, Windows 10 has built-in security features to keep you from falling victim to ransomware.
Controlled Folder Access
This feature allows you to list certain documents and folders as “protected.” Only whitelisted programs can access and edit these folders, while any attempts by malicious apps to change the folders are blocked by Windows Defender.
In theory, this should slow down a ransomware’s ability to encrypt critical information. Some reports suggest that this feature can also prevent other threats like malicious file macros and viruses.
You can access the feature by going to Windows Defender Security Center and then enabling “Controlled folder access.” From there, you can choose which folders will be protected and what apps are allowed to access them. To save you time, common Microsoft applications are trusted automatically, but you can remove them from your whitelist whenever you want.
Application Guard
Windows Defender Application Guard is designed to prevent intrusions by using Microsoft’s Hyper-V virtual machine technology to detect and isolate compromised applications from the rest of your system. So if someone on your staff accidentally downloads a virus from their web browser, Application Guard will contain the threat before it infiltrates the rest of your company’s devices, apps, data, and network.
Device Guard
Similarly, Windows 10’s Device Guard feature, which is also found in Windows Defender Security Center, minimizes your PC’s exposure to malware by using advanced threat detection policies. It blocks all apps that are not considered to be trusted, ensuring that only approved code is running throughout the system. It also adds an extra layer of defense between your firewall and antivirus software.
Want to know more about how you can protect your business from ransomware and other cyberthreats? Call us today to get expert cybersecurity advice.
Windows ransomware protection: South Florida Business Takeaways
Windows ransomware protection is more than a one-time setting change for business users. Nextek IT helps South Florida teams turn everyday technology tips into repeatable standards for security, productivity, and support.
Built-in Windows controls can reduce ransomware risk when they are enabled, monitored, and paired with backup and recovery planning. Controlled Folder Access, updates, endpoint protection, and user permissions all matter.
- Document the recommended setting or process so employees can follow it consistently.
- Apply the change across managed devices instead of relying on one-off fixes.
- Review the result during regular endpoint, Microsoft 365, or cybersecurity maintenance.
Nextek IT helps businesses layer Windows security with managed cybersecurity services and practical recovery planning.
For help applying Windows ransomware protection across your company, explore Nextek IT’s fully managed IT services, server and desktop support, and cybersecurity services. You can also review CISA’s Secure Our World guidance for practical security basics.
Contact Nextek IT when your South Florida team wants these improvements handled by an IT support partner instead of manually page by page.