Showing posts with label Windows. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Windows. Show all posts

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

Fortify Your Files: A Step-by-Step Guide to Ransomware Protection on Windows

Discover how to safeguard your digital life by enabling and configuring ransomware protection settings in Windows, ensuring your files remain secure from malicious threats.

By Rodger Mansfield, Editor
March 13, 2024


Windows Security
Have you ever considered the security of your digital files? 

What measures are you taking to protect your personal data from ransomware attacks?

In today’s digital age, it’s not just about having antivirus software; it’s about being proactive in your defense strategies.

Here's a Cool Tip.  Be sure to set the Ransomware protection in Windows.

Ransomware is a type of malicious software designed to block access to a computer system or encrypt files until a sum of money is paid. 

It often spreads through phishing emails or by unknowingly visiting an infected website. 

Ransomware attacks can lead to significant data loss and require costly solutions to restore the affected systems.

The ransomware settings in Windows, specifically the Controlled folder access feature, provide a layer of protection against ransomware attacks. 

Windows Wednesday

When enabled, it monitors changes that apps make to files in protected folders. 

If an app that is not on the whitelist tries to make changes, you’ll receive a notification about the suspicious activity. 

This helps prevent unauthorized encryption of your files by ransomware, which could otherwise lock you out until a ransom is paid12.

Here's how to do it.

To find the Windows Security app on your Windows 10 or Windows 11 system, you can follow these steps:
  • Click on the Start button or press the Windows key on your keyboard.
  •  Type “Windows Security” into the search bar.
  • Click on the Windows Security app from the search results to open it.
  • Click on “Virus & threat protection” to access the ransomware protection settings.
Or
  • Click on the Start button, then select the gear-shaped Settings icon, or press Windows key + I.
  • In the Settings window, click on “Update & Security”.
  • On the left-hand side, click on “Windows Security”.
  • Click on “Virus & threat protection” to access the ransomware protection settings.
Windows Ransomware Setting
fig. 1 - Windows Ransomware Setting


  • Scroll down to the ‘Ransomware Protection’ section and click on ‘Manage Ransomware Protection’.
  • Turn on the toggle for ‘Controlled Folder Access’ to activate the feature.
  • By default, folders like Documents, Pictures, Videos, and Desktop are protected. You can add more folders by clicking on ‘Protected Folders’.
  • If you have trustworthy apps that need to access protected folders, you can allow them by clicking on ‘Allow an app through Controlled Folder Access’.
  • To see which apps have been blocked from accessing protected folders, you can check the ‘Block history’.
  • Ensure that your Windows Security app and your operating system are up to date to have the latest security protections.

Windows Ransomware Setting - Controlled Folders
fig. 2 - Windows Ransomware Setting - Controlled Folders


These settings are not on by default.

Making these changes provides an additional layer of defense against ransomware and ensures that your important files are not held hostage by cybercriminals.

Imagine you’re working on a critical project with tight deadlines. 

Suddenly, a ransomware attack encrypts all your files, demanding payment for their release. 

With ransomware settings enabled, your work would be secure, and productivity uninterrupted.

By following these steps, you can take control of your digital security and protect your files from ransomware. 

Remember, in the fight against cyber threats, knowledge is your best defense.


Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip

Do you have a Cool Tip or question? Email us at
onecooltip.com@gmail.com


READ MORE


Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned tech expert, is the mastermind behind OneCoolTip.com, where he serves as both writer and editor. With a keen eye for simplifying complex tech, Rodger delivers practical advice that empowers readers to navigate the digital world with confidence. Dive into OneCoolTip.com for a treasure trove of savvy tips and tricks that keep you one step ahead in tech.




OneCoolTip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life!


#Microsoft #Windows @Microsoft #Cybersecurity #RansomwareProtection #WindowsSecurity #DataSafety #MalwareDefense #WindowsWednesday #TechTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip 

Saturday, March 2, 2024

Speak Easy: Navigating Voice Typing on Windows

Step into the future of computing with Voice Typing on Windows 10 and 11. This beginner-friendly guide will show you how to command your PC with the power of speech, making typing a breeze.

By Rodger Mansfield
March 2, 2024

Voice Typing
Have you ever thought of dictating your thoughts to your computer and watching words magically appear on the screen? 

Imagine transforming your spoken words into written text with seamless precision.

Here's a Cool Tip.  Use Voice Typing in Windows.

Whether you’re drafting an email, jotting down notes, or crafting your next novel, Voice Typing on Windows 10 and 11 can make it happen. 

Here's how to do it.
  • Connect a microphone to your PC and ensure it’s recognized by Windows.
  • Activate Voice Typing with the shortcut Win + H.
  • Start speaking naturally to dictate text; pause briefly between sentences for best results.
  • Edit on the go with commands like “delete that” or “start a new line.”
  • Review the transcribed text and make any manual adjustments if needed.

Windows Voice Typing

fig. 1 - Windows Voice Typing in Windows


Voice Typing in Windows 10 and 11 is a game-changer for anyone looking to streamline their digital tasks. 

Voice Typing Enhances productivity by freeing up your hands for other tasks and offers greater accessibility for users with different abilities.

By embracing this intuitive feature, you’ll unlock a new dimension of convenience and accessibility in your daily computer use.

Enjoy!



Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip


READ MORE



Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned tech expert, is the mastermind behind OneCoolTip.com, where he serves as both writer and editor. With a keen eye for simplifying complex tech, Rodger delivers practical advice that empowers readers to navigate the digital world with confidence. Dive into OneCoolTip.com for a treasure trove of savvy tips and tricks that keep you one step ahead in tech.




OneCoolTip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life!



#Microsoft @Microsoft #Windows #VoiceTypingWindows #SpeechToText#EffortlessTyping #AccessibilityWin #MicrosoftTips #TechEase #TechTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip 

Sunday, February 4, 2024

Boost Your PC’s Performance With This Cool Tip

Microsoft PC Manager
Is your Windows PC running slower than it used to? 

Are you looking for a reliable solution to optimize your system’s performance? 

Microsoft’s latest offering, the Microsoft PC Manager, might just be the answer to your woes. 

This powerful tool promises to streamline your system, but does it deliver? Let’s dive in and find out.

Here's how to do it.
  1. Navigate to the official Microsoft PC Manager website or the Microsoft Store to download the application. 
  2. Ensure your system runs Windows 10 (1809 and above) or Windows 11.
  3. Launch the application and use the ‘PC Boost’ feature to clean up your system and free up space.
  4. Manage large files and utilize storage sense to let Windows automatically free up storage for you.
  5. With the integrated Microsoft Defender virus engine, perform a comprehensive antivirus scan to identify and neutralize unknown risks.
  6. Use the ‘Health Check’ feature to find and fix issues quickly with one click.

Microsoft PC Manager Home Screen
fig. 1 - Microsoft PC Manager Home Screen

Whenever your PC feels sluggish, you can simply click the ‘Boost’ button to give it a performance uplift. 

The “Boost PC” feature of Microsoft PC Manager is designed to enhance your computer’s performance by performing a quick cleanup. 

Here’s what it does:

  • Clears Temporary Files: It removes temporary files that can clutter and slow down your system.
  • Frees Up Memory: By closing unnecessary background processes, it helps to free up memory, which can speed up your PC.
  • Improves System Performance: The overall effect of the cleanup is a more responsive and faster system.

Designed with simplicity and efficiency in mind, it’s accessible even to non-tech-savvy individuals.

However, remember that it is limited to Windows 10 and 11.

If your PC is slowing down, download the tool and experience the benefits firsthand by using PC Manager.

Enjoy.


Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip

Do you have a Cool Tip or question? Email us at
onecooltip.com@gmail.com



READ MORE

OneCoolTip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life!


@Microsoft #PCManager #MicrosoftPCManager #OptimizeWindows #BoostYourPC #TechTips #Windows11 #Windows10 #SystemCleanup #Antivirus #PCPerformance #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip 

Thursday, January 4, 2024

Unlock Windows 11's Hidden Power: Master the Almighty God Mode

Windows 11 God Mode
Have you ever get tired of navigating through endless Windows menus and folders? 

Wish you had a single portal to access all your system settings at once? 

Here's a Cool Tip. Use Windows 11 God Mode.

In Windows 11, God Mode is a hidden control panel that grants you one-click access to almost all of the system's settings and administrative tools. 

This means you can bypass the normal Windows menus and folders that can be frustratingly deep and tedious to navigate.

We first told you about God Mode for Windows 10, way back when.

The core experience and functionality of God Mode remain remarkably similar between Windows 10 and Windows 11. 

Most users won't encounter significant differences beyond the updated visual aesthetics. 

Here's how to do it.
  • Right-click on any empty space on your desktop.
  • Select New > Folder.
  • Rename the folder to GodMode.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C} 
    • (don't forget the curly braces!).
  • Press Enter.
  • Your folder icon transforms into the familiar Control Panel symbol, but with a hidden world revealed – hundreds of system settings, from administrative tools to network configurations, all neatly organized for your exploration.
Say goodbye to tedious menu diving. God Mode offers a one-stop shop for all your system tweaks.

Boost your productivity by finding tools and settings faster than ever before.

With great power comes with great responsibility: Modifying certain settings can impact your system stability. 

Caution - OneCoolTip

Proceed with caution and research tweaks before applying them.

Example: Need to quickly manage your network connections? 

God Mode provides one-click access to adapters, properties, and advanced settings. No more digging through multiple network menus!

Windows 11 God Mode - Change Setting Example
fig. 1 - Windows 11 God Mode - Change Setting Example


You can customize God Mode by rearranging folders and removing unwanted shortcuts. 

Right-click within the folder, select "Personalize," and play around to create your own ultimate control center.

Unlike a real god, God Mode in Windows 11 is completely reversible and doesn't require any complex rituals or sacrifices. 

Here's how you can easily undo it:

Option 1: Delete the folder:
  • Locate the God Mode folder on your desktop (it will have the Control Panel icon).
  • Right-click on the folder and select "Delete."

Option 2: Rename the folder:
  • Right-click on the God Mode folder.
  • Select "Rename."
  • Change the folder name by removing the curly braces from "{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C}".

Both of these options remove the God Mode functionality, essentially reverting your system to the standard Control Panel access.

Ready to unleash the God Mode within? Share your experiences and favorite hidden settings in the comments below!

Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip


READ MORE


OneCoolTip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life!


#Microsoft @Microsoft #Windows #Windows11 #GodMode #HiddenFeatures #TechTips #PowerUser #ControlPanel #ProductivityHacks #WindowsSecrets #TechTips #OneCoolTIp @OneCoolTip 

Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Ditch the Mouse, Master the F Keys: Productivity Hacks for Windows

Have you ever wondered what those F keys at the top of your keyboard do? 

Want to boost your productivity by making full use of your keyboard? 

Do you get tired of endless clicking?

Here's a Cool Tip.  Use the Function Keys (F Keys) to Boost Productivity.

The F keys, also known as function keys, are a row of keys at the top of your keyboard labeled F1 through F12. 

Use them to quickly access a variety of functions (pun intended!).

F keys improve your productivity by offering easy access to help, searches, spelling and grammar checks and more.

Here's how to use them in Microsoft Windows.

F1: Opens the help menu in almost every application.  

Stuck on a task? Press F1 for instant context-sensitive help in most programs. 


F2: Renames a selected file or folder.  

Selected a file and itching to change its name? Forget right-clicking! Press F2 for instant editing.


F3: Opens the search feature in most applications.  

 Lost in a document or webpage? Unleash F3, the ultimate search bar summoner. 


F4: Closes the current window in most applications when combined with Alt.  

This one's a double-edged sword. Alt + F4 closes the current window, but be careful – it can close programs too! Use wisely!


F5: Refreshes the page in web browsers and other applications.  

Refresh, Refresh, Refresh!: Need a website or document update? F5 is your digital refresh button, bringing you the latest.


F6: Moves the cursor to the address bar in most internet browsers. 

Juggling multiple windows? F6 cycles through them like a seasoned juggler, saving you clicks and precious time.


Master Function Keys - OneCoolTip.com

F7: Varies by program, but often checks spelling and grammar in word processors.

In most word processors and text editors, F7 activates the spell checker, ensuring your writing is polished and error-free.

In some programs with multiple panes, like Windows Explorer, F7 shifts focus between them for efficient navigation.

F8: Used to enter the Windows startup menu (only works during boot-up).

Press F8 repeatedly during computer startup to access the Advanced Boot Options menu, where you can troubleshoot issues or start in Safe Mode.

In certain text editors, F8 enables extended text selection for advanced editing tasks.

F9: Varies by program.

In Microsoft Outlook, F9 sends and receives emails, syncing your inbox with the latest updates.

In Excel, F9 recalculates all open workbooks, ensuring your formulas are up-to-date and accurate.


F10: Activates the menu bar in many applications.

In most programs, F10 highlights the menu bar, allowing you to navigate menus using the arrow keys or letters, often without a mouse.

In Windows Explorer, F10 acts as a right-click, opening context menus for files and folders.


F11: Enters or exits full-screen mode in most browsers.

In most web browsers, F11 immerses you in full-screen mode, hiding toolbars and distractions for a focused viewing experience.

On some computers, pressing F11 during startup can lead to a hidden recovery partition for troubleshooting or system restoration.


F12: Opens the ‘Save As’ dialog in Microsoft Word.

In many programs, F12 opens the "Save As" dialog box, allowing you to save your work with a specific filename and location.

 In web browsers, F12 usually launches developer tools, giving you insights into website code and functionality for debugging or customization.

***

The F keys can greatly increase your productivity by providing quick access to commonly used functions.

Experimentation and exploration are key to discovering the full potential of your F keys!

What is your favorite F key?

How do you use it?

Let us know in the comments below.

Enjoy!


Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip


READ MORE

OneCoolTip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life!

#Microsoft @Microsoft #Windows #Windows10 #Windows11 #WindowsTips, #FKeys #ProductivityHacks #TechTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip

Thursday, November 30, 2023

Don't Be a Victim: Update Chrome Immediately to Patch Zero-Day Exploit

In today's interconnected world, our online security is paramount.
With the ever-evolving threat landscape, staying vigilant and keeping our software up to date is crucial.
On November 28. 2023, Google warns that a  recent zero-day exploit requires Chrome to be updated. 
Chrome needs to be updated to updated to Chrome version 119.0.6045.199/.200 for Windows and version 119.0.6045.199 for Mac and Linux.
Google Chrome, one of the most popular web browsers, regularly releases security updates to address vulnerabilities and protect users from potential exploits.
Here's how to do it.
  • Launch Chrome and click on the three-dot menu in the top right corner.
  • Select "Help" from the dropdown menu.
  • Choose "About Google Chrome."
  • Chrome will automatically check for updates.
    • If an update is available, it will start downloading.
  • Once the download is complete, Chrome will prompt you to restart the browser to apply the update.
  • Click "Relaunch" to complete the process.

Update Google Chrome - Zero Day Exploit
fig. 1 - Update Google Chrome - Zero Day Exploit

That's it!

Enjoy!

Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip


READ MORE



OneCoolTip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life


#Google @Google #Chrome #ChromeUpdate #ZeroDayExploit #SecurityPatch #OnlineSafety #TechTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip

Wednesday, November 15, 2023

Use This Shortcut When Your Screen Blacks Out

Windows
Have you ever found yourself in the middle of an important task when your screen suddenly goes black? 

Or perhaps you’ve experienced graphical glitches that disrupt your workflow? 

What if there was a quick, easy solution right at your fingertips? 

Here's a Cool Tip.  Use the Windows keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Win + Shift + B.

The Ctrl + Win + Shift + B shortcut is designed to reset the graphics subsystem on your Windows machine. 

This can be particularly useful when you’re experiencing graphical issues or black screen problems.

Here's how to do it.
  • Press the Ctrl, Win, and Shift keys on your keyboard simultaneously, followed by the ‘B’ key. 
  • Your screen will go black for a split second and you’ll hear a beep, indicating that the graphics subsystem has been reset.

CTRL + WIN + SHIFT + B Shortcut

fig. 1 -  Use Ctrl + Win + Shift + B to Reset Graphics

This shortcut provides a quick and easy way to troubleshoot and resolve common graphical issues without needing to restart your computer or delve into complex settings.

While this shortcut can be a handy tool for temporary fixes, it’s not a permanent solution. 

If you’re working on a graphic-intensive project and start to notice visual glitches, this shortcut can help you quickly resolve the issue and continue with your work.

Enjoy!

Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip

READ MORE

OneCoolTip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life


#Microsoft @Microsoft #WIndows #WindowsShortcuts #TechTips #PCMaster #Troubleshooting #TechTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip

Wednesday, November 1, 2023

How to Rename Files on Windows and Macs

Have you ever found yourself lost in a sea of ambiguously named files on your computer? 

Ever wished there was a quick and easy way to rename them without going through a series of clicks? 

Here's a Cool Tip for Windows.  Use the F2 key.

Here's how to do it.


On Windows:
  1. Navigate to the file you want to rename.
  2. Click on the file to select it.
  3. Press the F2 key.
  4. Type the new name for your file.
  5. Press Enter to save the new name.
Renaming files using these methods is quick and efficient, saving you valuable time. 


Rename Windows File F2

fig. 1 - Rename Windows with File F2


On Mac:
  1. Navigate to the file you want to rename.
  2. Click on the file to select it.
  3. Press the Return key.
  4. Type the new name for your file.
  5. Press Enter to save the new name.
That's it.

Enjoy.

Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!
Visit the OneCoolTip YouTube Channelhttps://www.youtube.com/@onecooltip

READ MORE

#Microsoft @Microsoft #Apple @Apple #Mac #Macintosh #TechTips, #FileManagement, #WindowsGuide, #MacGuide #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip 

Thursday, October 12, 2023

Mastering the New Quick Settings Sound Mixer in Windows 11

Windows 11
Ever found yourself struggling to balance the audio levels between different applications on your computer? 

Have you wished for a more intuitive way to control the sound output of each app individually? 

Here's a Cool Tip.  Use the new Quick Settings Volume Mixer in Windows 11.

Microsoft has introduced an enhanced volume mixer in the September 2023 update. 

This new feature allows you to adjust audio levels for each app separately. 

Here's how to do it.
  • Open Through Keyboard Shortcut:
    • WIN + CTRL + V to open the new Quick Settings mixer.

Windows 11 Volume Mixer Quick Setting
fig. 1 - Windows 11 Volume Mixer Quick Setting

From here, you can change volume for system sounds and specific applications.

  • Click More Volume Settings to open the System Sound window.
  • Click the Settings icon for More Mixer Settings.
You also can bring up the full Volume Mixer settings:
  • Open Through the Taskbar
    • Right-click on the volume icon in your taskbar and select Open Volume mixer.
  • Open Through Settings: 
    • Navigate to Settings> System > Sound > Volume mixer.

Enjoy!

Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!


READ MORE

OneCoolTip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life


#Microsoft @Microsoft #Windows11 #Windows11Update #SoundMixer #TechTutorial #WindowsTips #TechNews #TechTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip 

Tuesday, October 10, 2023

How to Use the New ‘End Task’ Feature in Windows 11

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where an application on your computer is not responding, and you’re scrambling to find a way to close it? 

Or perhaps you’re a power user looking for more efficient ways to manage your applications? 

Here's a Cool Tip.  Use the New End Task Feature on the Windows Taskbar.

The latest update of Windows 11, released on September 26, 2023, introduces a handy new feature that allows users to end tasks directly from the taskbar. 

But before you can use it, you need to enable it.

Here's how to do it.

Turning the End Task Feature On
  • Right-click on the Start menu and select Settings.
  • In the Settings window, select System from the left panel.
  • Scroll down and click on For developers.
  • Toggle the End Task button
  • You’ve now enabled the End Task feature. 
Windows 11 For Developers
fig.1 - Windows 11 For Developers - End Task

Using End Task
  • Right-click on any open app on your taskbar and select ‘End Task’ to kill its process. 
  • This is a much more efficient alternative to launching Task Manager and navigating to the Processes tab.
Windows End Task
fig. 2 - Windows End Task

The End Task feature is just one of many exciting updates introduced in the September 26, 2023 update of Windows 1115. 

Give this new feature a try and discover how it can streamline your Windows experience!

Enjoy!


Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!

READ MORE

OneCoolTip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life


#Microsoft @Microsoft #Windows11 #Windows #Windows11Update #EndTaskFeature #MicrosoftUpdates #TechTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip  

Saturday, September 30, 2023

How to Master the Combine Taskbar Buttons Feature in Windows 11

Windows 11
Have you ever found yourself lost in a sea of open windows on your computer, struggling to find that one document you need? 

Or perhaps you’re a multitasker, juggling multiple applications at once and wishing for a more streamlined way to manage them all? 

Here's a Cool Tip.  Use the New Combine Taskbar Button setting in Windows 11.

Windows 11 has introduced a plethora of new features and improvements, one of which is the ability to customize how your taskbar buttons behave. 

This feature allows you to choose between always combining taskbar buttons or never combining them, giving you more control over your workspace. 

This means that multiple documents, such as Microsoft Word, will appear under one combined icon or not.

Here's how to do it.
  • Right-click on an empty space on your taskbar to open the context menu.
  • From the context menu, select Taskbar settings to open the Taskbar settings window.

Taskbar Settings Windows 11
fig. 1 - Taskbar Settings Windows 11
  • In the Taskbar settings window, select the section labeled Taskbar behaviors.
  • Click on the dropdown menu under Combine Taskbar buttons and hide labels
    • Select Always if you want all open windows from the same application to be combined into one taskbar button. 
    • Select Never if you want each open window to have its own separate taskbar button.
    • Select When Taskbar is full if you want to combine only when the taskbar is too full of icon.
Combine Taskbar Buttons - Windows 11
fig. 2 - Combine Taskbar Buttons - Windows 11


It’s as simple as that! 

With just a few clicks, you can customize your taskbar to suit your workflow.

Enjoy!

Please LIKE and SHARE OneCoolTip.com!

READ MORE

OneCoolTip.com
Cool Tech Tips for a Cooler Life

#Microsoft #Windows @Microsoft #Windows11 #TaskbarTips #ProductivityHacks #TechGuide #TechTips #OneCoolTip @OneCoolTip