Windows 10-how to enable find my device feature

Previously a third party software was needed if a lost device was to be tracked but now Microsoft has made available a similar application to its Windows 10 users. The application is available free to download from the store if not automatically installed. The software may prove to be very helpful to track the location of the device in case of unfortunate loss or stolen. The application is explained in brief in the forgoing paragraphs -

Find my device

What is find my device feature in Windows 10

This new feature added by Microsoft in Windows 10 is similar to the GPS tracking feature to remotely locate a lost device previously available in Tablets, Laptops and Smart Phones. Previously a third party software was necessary but now Microsoft made available it in Windows 10. But you must have already enabled it to track a lost device to track its location in case it is lost.

Limitations of find my device feature in Windows 10

The tracking software in Smart Phone and Tablet is capable of locking the device and wiping off the data remotely but the Microsoft ‘Find my device’ can only track the device’s location and can’t wipe the data or lock the device remotely. It can Neither play an alarm nor it is capable of taking a snap of the user . A smart phone remains powered on round the clock and connected to the network hence automatically checks in and reports its location but in the case of a Laptop it needs to be switched on and connected to the network. The thief can format your Laptop or factory reset the mobile device. There is no protection against factory resetting is available like it is available in the smart phones and Tablets.

How to enable find my laptop in windows 10

To enable ‘Find my device’ in Windows 10 you need the application installed on your device. You can download it from Microsoft store free of cost and install it on your device. To enable it –

1. Login to your Microsoft account
2. Go to setting
3. Click update and security.
4. You will see ‘Find my device is off’ as shown in the image below. 

Screen no-1 find my device setting

Now click ‘Change’

Screen no-2 find my device setting

Now as shown in the image above, you will be prompted ‘Save my device’s location periodically’ please save it and henceforth your Windows 10 device will send your location at frequent intervals to Microsoft automatically. This will help you to track the last location of your lost device irrespective of whether it is switched on or not or connected to the network or not.