Don't the protected folders in Windows cause more problems than benefits?
The Protected Folders feature in Windows (part of Windows Defender's ransomware protection feature) provides additional protection against unauthorized access to important files. However, it has both advantages and disadvantages:
1. Ransomware protection : Files in these folders are protected from unauthorized encryption or modification.
2. Better control : Only authorized applications can access these folders.
3. Easy management : Users can add or remove applications that are allowed to access the protected folders.
2.) Disadvantages of protected folders:
1. Compatibility issues : Some applications, especially older or unsigned ones, may not be able to access the protected folders, causing them to malfunction.
2. Increased administrative burden : Users must regularly approve new applications to gain access, which can be tedious.
3. False positives : Legitimate applications are sometimes blocked even though they do not pose a security threat.
4. Performance : In rare cases, Defender's access verification may impact system performance.
3.) Conclusion on protected folders under Windows:
Whether the feature causes more problems than benefits depends on individual usage. For users who often work with new or specialized programs, the feature could be frustrating. For security-conscious users who want to protect their sensitive data from ransomware, the benefits outweigh the disadvantages. It is important to configure the protected folders carefully to find the balance between security and usability.
4.) Protected folders under Windows Pro and Contra FAQ:
1.) Question: What are protected folders in Windows 10, 11 and 12 and how do they work?
Answer :
Protected Folders is a security feature available as part of Windows Defender Ransomware Protection in Windows 10, 11, and 12 versions. This feature protects certain directories from unauthorized changes or access, especially by malicious software such as ransomware.
How it works :
- By default, folders such as Documents, Pictures, and Desktop are protected.
- Only trusted applications are allowed to access these folders, which prevents malicious software from tampering with or encrypting your data.
- Users can customize the list of protected folders and allowed apps.
This protection feature works in the background and does not require constant monitoring by the user. It is a preventive measure against data loss and tampering.
2.) Question: Which user groups benefit most from using protected folders in Windows 12, 11 and 10?
Answer :
The Protected Folders feature primarily benefits the following user groups:
1. Home users with sensitive data : Users who store personal documents, pictures or financial data on their computers benefit from protection against ransomware.
2. Small businesses : Small businesses without dedicated IT departments get an easy way to protect critical business data such as customer data and contracts.
3. Freelancers and self-employed people : People who work on projects and cannot afford interruptions due to data loss or encryption also benefit.
4. Parents : The feature protects against unwanted access by children or family members who could accidentally delete or modify files.
These groups benefit from an additional layer of security without having to install expensive third-party solutions.
3.) Question: Are there any disadvantages or limitations to using protected folders in Windows 10, 11 and 12?
Answer :
Yes, using Protected Folders can have the following disadvantages:
1. Compatibility issues : Some older or unsigned applications can be blocked even if they are legitimate software.
2. Administrative burden : Users must regularly add programs manually to the list of trusted applications, which takes time.
3. False positives : Windows Defender can mistakenly classify legitimate access attempts as threats, which can cause interruptions.
4. Performance issues : In rare cases, the additional verification of file operations can affect system speed, especially on older PCs.
5. Limited use in corporate environments : Some companies use specialized software that will not work with Protected Folders without adjustments.
Despite these limitations, for many users, protection from ransomware outweighs the potential disadvantages.
4.) Question: How do I configure protected folders in Windows 11 and 12 to ensure optimal security?
Answer :
Configuring protected folders is easy and offers flexibility:
1. Open Windows Security Center :
- Navigate to Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security .
2. Enable ransomware protection :
- Select the Manage ransomware protection option and turn on the switch for Controlled folder access .
3. Add folders :
- Add custom folders you want to protect (for example, project directories or external drives).
4. Manage access for apps :
- Select Allow an app through controlled folder access and add programs that are allowed to access protected folders.
By following these steps, you will ensure that your most important files are protected while trusted applications can continue to work without issues.
5.) Question: Are protected folders more secure in Windows 12 than in previous versions?
Answer :
Yes, Protected Folders in Windows 12 offers improved security features compared to Windows 10 and 11. The key improvements include:
1. Better threat detection : Ransomware protection in Windows 12 is based on optimized threat detection that detects the latest attack vectors faster.
2. Enhanced logging : Users receive detailed reports of blocked access attempts, including the origin and type of threat.
3. Seamless integration with Microsoft Defender ATP : Organizations that use Microsoft's Advanced Threat Protection (ATP) can seamlessly integrate Protected Folders into their security strategy.
4. Improved usability : Configuration options have been simplified and there are fewer false positives.
These improvements make Protected Folders in Windows 12 an even more effective security solution.
6.) Question: Can ransomware bypass Protected Folders protection in Windows 10, 11 and 12?
Answer :
Ransomware usually cannot bypass the protection of protected folders directly because:
1. Only authorized apps are allowed access : Windows checks every application that wants to access protected folders and blocks unauthorized access attempts.
2. File locks are implemented : Even if ransomware gets onto the system, it cannot modify or encrypt files in protected folders.
3. Real-time protection is active : Windows Defender also offers real-time protection that detects and blocks threats before they can do any damage.
However, it is important to check the protection regularly and make sure that only trusted programs are granted access.
7.) Question: What file types should be stored in protected folders in Windows 12, 11 and 10?
Answer :
The protected folders should contain all sensitive and irreplaceable files, including:
1. Documents : text documents, spreadsheets, and presentations (e.g. .docx, .xlsx, .pptx).
2. Images and videos : family photos, videos, and digital artwork (.jpg, .png, .mp4).
3. Financial and tax documents : invoices, bank statements, and tax returns.
4. Project data : work projects, source code, and drafts.
5. Backup files : local backups of important databases or system files.
By protecting these file types, you ensure that the most important content is safe from loss or tampering.
8.) Question: Can I back up external drives with protected folders?
Answer :
Yes, Windows 11 and 12 allow you to set up protected folders on external drives too. This is useful for:
1. USB sticks and external hard drives : backing up important files even if they are portable.
2. Network drives : protecting data stored on shared drives.
To use this feature, add the desired folder via the Ransomware Protection settings.
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