How to immediately find your lost Windows laptop

Losing your laptop can be scary and incredibly stressful, especially considering the amount of money you spend purchasing it and the important information you keep stored on it. That’s why we’re showing you how to locate your laptop should it ever get lost or stolen.  First, you will need to create a Microsoft account if you don’t already have one. Here’s how to set one up:

  • Go to account.microsoft.com, select Sign in, then choose Create one
  • If you’d rather create a new email address, choose Get a new email address, choose Next
  • Then chose a password, then choose next 

 

Similar to Apple devices, Windows provides steps you can take in case your PC laptop is stolen or missing.  Before it gets to that point, you can follow these steps:

  • Select the Start button at the bottom left of your PC screen
  • Go to Settings
  • Select Update & Security
  • Select Find my device and change it to ON
  • Select Location Setting and change it to ON
  • Select the Start button at the bottom left of your PC screen
  • Go to Settings
  • Select Privacy & security
  • Select Find my device and select ON
  • Go to Location Services and select ON
  • Go to the Microsoft devices page and sign in
  • Select the Find My Device tab
  • Choose the device you wish to find
  • Select Find to see your device on a map
  • Once you see your device on the map, select Lock
  • Click Next
  • Reset your password to prevent others from signing onto your PC

If you determine your laptop has been stolen, you should immediately contact local law enforcement and file a police report. Also, provide them with the information you discovered using Find My Device. Don’t try to physically track it down on your own. Provide them with the serial number and any other identifying information. Also, contact your insurance company to report the theft and see if they cover the loss of your device.

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