Windows 10 feature that tracks your stolen or lost device

Activate a Windows 10 feature that tracks your stolen or lost device

Hands up, how many Windows 10 users know of a feature to track the device if its stolen? Not many, one would guess. Microsoft has at last responded to fears of theft of Windows 10 devices with its operating system (OS), and came out with an update to solve the problem.

The latest version packs features that help users to track their device, with no extra charge and no added software downloads. It still has to be enabled and this is how the Find Your Device feature is activated:

Prerequisites

Before we start, it is important for you have the following software updates and settings to have a safe recovery in case of theft.

1. Ensure that you have the Windows 10 November Update installed on your device.
2. Check the version of Windows 10 that is installed. Double check that it is Windows 10 version 1511 or higher. If it is, then you can proceed with the process. Users who already have upgraded to Windows 10 after the update was rolled out should already have the specific version.
3. Make sure that you are the administrator on your device.
4. Allow Microsoft to record your device’s regular intervals.

How To Set Up Find My Device

Although Microsoft has provided the feature in the update, it is not enabled by default. Here are the steps that will aid you through the process.

Step 1:

Press or tap the Windows key, to be found in the lower left corner of the screen or keyboard. Whether Tablet Mode is switched on or not does not matter, as you will see Start.

Step 2:

Click or tap on the Settings app. Then navigate to Updates & Security, which is found in the second row of settings.

Step 3:

Navigate in the menu to Find My Device and click or tap on it. To make it easier to find, it is the sixth title in the menu.

Step 4:

Click or tap on Change. A small dialog box will open saying Save my device’s location periodically, click or tap it to switch it on. Once you switch it on it will say ON.

There is no need to worry about your device being stolen and untraceable.

If you have lost your device and already had the feature activated, then you should see the section below to track your machine.

How To Find Your Windows 10 Device

Step 1:

To track your device, click on the link here. This will send you to Microsoft’s Accounts Dashboard, which provides a more comprehensive look at the device attached to your account. All devices can be tracked from the panel, be it a Windows Phone, notebook, or tablet.

Keep in mind that you will be asked to provide a password and username to login. If you have enabled enhanced security then a pin code will be needed.

Step 2:

Click or tap on Devices. This can be found on the top with other category titles.

Step 3:

Now search for the specific device that you wish to track. Once you do that, click or tap the Find My Device option given right next to the chosen device.

Step 4:

A map will appear that shows the exact location of your device if it is ever lost or stolen. This location might not be accurate if your device does not have a built-in GPS.