Overview
Bitlocker is a full volume encryption technology prevelant on Windows-based computers. The technology was new in Microsoft's Windows Vista, and is available on all versions of Windows after Vista. Windows 10 and 11 began encrypting volumes by default for added security. If the computer BIOS thinks that the computer has been or is being tampered with, the Bitlocker technology may lock the volume to prevent data from falling into the wrong hands. The computer is then only accessible with the Bitlocker key that was set (automatically) when the computer was originally set up.
This key is stored in the Microsoft account that is connected to the computer.
Recovering Your Bitlocker Key
Your Bitlocker Key is saved in the Microsoft Account you used to setup your laptop. Below is a link to the Microsoft Help Article on how to recover the Bitlocker Key. Please take a look and let me if you have success – or have follow up questions.
- You will need to use another device to find your recovery key. This is the most likely place to find your recovery key. In a web browser, navigate to https://account.microsoft.com/devices/recoverykey.
- Sign in with the MIcrosoft account you used to set up your computer. If this is a Cedar Crest owned computer, click here to open a help desk ticket for assistance.
- When you log in, you will see the list of computers and BitLocker keys.
- If your Bitlocker key is not here, and someone else setup your computer for you, the key may be in their Microsoft or corporate account. You will need to contact that person for further assistance. It is also possible that the key was included in the original packaging of your computer.
Microsoft Support Article: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/finding-your-bitlocker-recovery-key-in-windows-6b71ad27-0b89-ea08-f143-056f5ab347d6