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How to Fix Controlled Folder Access Not Working in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

Controlled Folder Access is a security feature in Windows 11 designed to protect your important files from unauthorized changes by malicious apps. However, sometimes this feature may not work as expected, leaving your folders unprotected. Understanding how to fix Controlled Folder Access when it stops working is essential to keep your data safe.

This guide will walk you through simple and clear steps to troubleshoot and resolve issues with Controlled Folder Access. Each step is explained in detail to ensure even beginners can follow along without confusion.

By the end of this article, you’ll know how to check your settings, allow trusted apps, and perform advanced fixes if needed. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the solutions.

Remember, maintaining this feature properly helps prevent ransomware and other harmful software from accessing your files.

Quick Note: What to Check Before Fixing Controlled Folder Access

  • Windows Security Version: Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date. Controlled Folder Access is part of Windows Security, and updates often fix bugs.
  • Windows Defender Enabled: Controlled Folder Access works with Microsoft Defender Antivirus. Ensure Defender antivirus is active.
  • Administrator Rights: You need admin permissions to change Controlled Folder Access settings.
  • Folder Location: Controlled Folder Access protects specific folders, usually system folders or user folders like Documents and Pictures.

Step 1: Verify Controlled Folder Access is Enabled

The first and simplest step is to check if Controlled Folder Access is turned on in Windows Security. Sometimes it may be disabled, which is why it’s not working.

  1. Click the Start button and open Settings.
  2. Go to Privacy & Security > Windows Security.
  3. Click on Virus & threat protection.
  4. Scroll down to Ransomware protection and click Manage ransomware protection.
  5. Make sure Controlled folder access is switched to On.

If it is off, turn it on and see if your folders are now protected.

Step 2: Allow Trusted Apps Through Controlled Folder Access

Controlled Folder Access blocks apps that it does not recognize. Sometimes, legitimate apps you use get blocked accidentally. You need to add these apps to the allowed list.

  1. Open Windows Security and navigate to the ransomware protection section as explained above.
  2. Click on Allow an app through Controlled folder access.
  3. Select Add an allowed app, then choose Recently blocked apps or Browse all apps to find the app you want to allow.
  4. Locate the app executable (.exe) file and add it.

This step is important because if your usual programs are blocked, they won’t be able to save or modify files in protected folders.

Step 3: Check Folder Protection Settings

Controlled Folder Access protects specific folders by default, but you can add more folders if you want.

  1. In the ransomware protection settings, click on Protected folders.
  2. Review the list of protected folders.
  3. If the folder you want to protect is not listed, click Add a protected folder and select the folder.

Adding folders ensures that Controlled Folder Access monitors the files you care about most.

Step 4: Temporarily Disable and Re-enable Controlled Folder Access

If Controlled Folder Access is enabled but still not working, try toggling it off and on again. This can reset the feature and fix minor glitches.

  1. Turn off Controlled Folder Access from ransomware protection settings.
  2. Restart your computer.
  3. Turn Controlled Folder Access back on.

This simple refresh often resolves issues caused by temporary system glitches.

Step 5: Update Windows and Microsoft Defender

Sometimes bugs in Windows or Defender cause Controlled Folder Access to malfunction. Keeping your system updated ensures you have the latest fixes.

  1. Open Settings and go to Windows Update.
  2. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
  3. Restart your PC if required.

Additionally, open Windows Security and verify that Microsoft Defender Antivirus is updated.

Step 6: Use PowerShell to Reset Controlled Folder Access

If the normal settings do not fix the problem, you can use PowerShell commands to reset Controlled Folder Access settings.

  1. Search for PowerShell in the Start menu, right-click it, and select Run as administrator.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
    3. Set-MpPreference -EnableControlledFolderAccess Disabled
  3. This disables Controlled Folder Access.
  4. Then type this to re-enable it:
    5. Set-MpPreference -EnableControlledFolderAccess Enabled
  5. Close PowerShell and restart your computer.

This method forces a reset of the feature, which can fix deeper configuration problems.

Alternative Method: Use Group Policy Editor (For Advanced Users)

If you are comfortable with advanced Windows tools, you can manage Controlled Folder Access via Group Policy Editor. This is useful in corporate or managed environments.

  1. Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
  2. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Microsoft Defender Antivirus > Windows Defender Exploit Guard > Controlled Folder Access.
  3. Double-click Configure Controlled Folder Access.
  4. Set it to Enabled and choose desired options.
  5. Click Apply and OK.

This method provides centralized control but requires familiarity with system administration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Controlled Folder Access?

Controlled Folder Access is a Windows security feature that helps protect files and folders from unauthorized changes by malicious software, especially ransomware.

Why is Controlled Folder Access not working on my Windows 11?

It might be disabled, your antivirus may be turned off, or the feature might be blocking apps that it shouldn’t. Outdated Windows or corrupted settings can also cause issues.

Can I add any folder to Controlled Folder Access?

Yes, you can add any folder you want to protect, but system folders and common user folders like Documents, Pictures, and Desktop are protected by default.

Will Controlled Folder Access block all apps?

No, it blocks only apps that are not trusted or recognized. You can manually allow apps that you trust.

Do I need to disable Controlled Folder Access to install software?

Sometimes yes, if the installer is blocked. It’s better to add the installer as a trusted app rather than disabling the feature permanently.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and Controlled Folder Access is still not functioning properly, consider the following:

  • Run the Windows Troubleshooter for Windows Security to detect and fix common problems.
  • Perform a SFC scan to check for corrupted system files. Open PowerShell as admin and run: sfc /scannow.
  • Reset Windows Security app by navigating to Settings > Apps > Apps & features, find Windows Security, and select Advanced options > Reset.
  • Visit the official Microsoft support page for Controlled Folder Access issues: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows.

If problems persist, contacting Microsoft Support may be necessary.

Conclusion

Controlled Folder Access is a valuable tool to safeguard your important files on Windows 11. When it stops working, start by checking basic settings, allowing trusted apps, and ensuring Windows is fully updated.

If simple fixes don’t work, advanced methods like PowerShell resets or Group Policy adjustments can help. Always take care to add only trusted apps to avoid accidental blocking.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can restore Controlled Folder Access functionality and keep your data protected against malicious changes.

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