Location-tracking apps have become incredibly popular and can be a real lifesaver if your device gets lost or stolen.

When build number 1511 for Windows 10 was released in November, Microsoft introduced a ‘Find My Device’ feature for laptops and tablets.

Follow the steps below to check what you need to do before enabling the ‘Find My Device’ feature. We also look at how to enable the feature and locate your device if it is lost or stolen.

Requirements for the ‘Find My Device’ feature

To enable the ‘Find My Device’ feature, there are certain requirements that need to completed beforehand.

Add a Microsoft account to your device 

If you ever have to locate your device you will have to sign in with a Microsoft account and not a local account.

Check the Windows 10 build number 

The new ‘Find My Device’ feature for laptops and tablets was introduced with build 1511. To check what build number you are on, follow the steps below:

• To open the Run dialog box, press Windows+R.
• Type in: winver and click Ok.
• An about Windows popup will appear. The build number is shown in brackets behind the version number. To have access to the ‘Find My Device’ feature you need to be on build 1511 or higher.
• To update your build number, click on the Start menu > Settings > Update & Recovery and check for updates.

Turn on ‘Find My Device’ to keep track of your laptop, tablet

• Click on the Start menu > Settings > Update & Security.
• If you are on the right build number you will see Find My Device in the left-hand panel, click it.
• Once you are in the ‘Find My Device’ section you will be able to see whether the feature is enabled or not.
• If it is not enabled, click the Change button and select On in the popup that appears.

How to locate your device if it is lost or stolen

If your tablet or laptop is lost or stolen, head to the Microsoft site. Under the Devices section, sign in with the same Microsoft account that you use on your tablet or laptop.

Image credit: Allen Lai; Flickr