If you're moving from a Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 PC to a new Windows device, you'll find that the best way to get apps and games is through Microsoft Store.

Alarms and timers work even if the app is closed or your device is locked. If you see a warning that notifications only show if the device is awake, make sure your device doesn’t go to sleep (Go to Start > Settings > System > Power & sleep to adjust your device’s sleep settings).

Desktop apps are a specific type of app that won’t ask for permission to access data associated with privacy settings in Windows. Some desktop apps may not even ask for permission to get access to personal data stored on your device.

In the Background apps permissions section, under Let this app run in the background, select one of the following options: Always—The app runs in the background, receiving info, sending notifications, and staying up-to-date even when you're not actively using it.This option may use more power.

If you're having trouble using the Outlook for Android mobile app, Open an in-app Outlook support ticket. If you have a work or school account that uses Microsoft 365 for business or Exchange-based accounts, there may be additional requirements set by your IT admin.

In the Microsoft Store app, select Profile (your account photo) > Settings.

The Microsoft 365 app launcher is a menu of apps and services that you are licensed for, and opens when you select the app launcher icon on Microsoft365.com. The App launcher makes opening and switching between your apps easy by highlighting your recently used apps, and providing quick access to your recent online Office documents.

On the settings page for that app, change the setting for Let this app run in the background.Here’s a summary of each option: Always.The app is always allowed to run in the background—receive info, send notifications, and stay up to date—even when you’re not actively using it.

When you open a port in Windows Defender Firewall you allow traffic into or out of your device, as though you drilled a hole in the firewall. This makes your device less secure and might create opportunities for hackers or malware to use one of those openings to get to your files or use your device to spread malware to other devices.

Smart App Control adds significant protection from new and emerging threats by blocking apps that are malicious or untrusted. Smart App Control also helps to block potentially unwanted apps, which are apps that may cause your device to run slowly, display unexpected ads, offer extra software you didn't want, or do other things you don't expect.