What is a BitLocker recovery key, and how can I use it? What is its main role in BitLocker drive encryption, and where can I find it? I want to learn about these topics, and any suggestions are welcome.
I'm glad to answer your questions. This post will introduce the BitLocker recovery key, covering its concept, application, and backup. Let's take a look.
The BitLocker recovery key, also known as a recovery password, is a 48-digit number that can be used to access a BitLocker-encrypted drive when the default unlock mechanism is unavailable. Every time you encrypt a drive (volume) with BitLocker, it generates a corresponding BitLocker recovery key. The way to distinguish which BitLocker recovery key corresponds to which encrypted volume is through the recovery key ID, which is displayed on the screen and saved in the backup file.
The main application of the recovery key is to verify the operator's identity when the computer is stuck on the recovery screen due to certain changes. Furthermore, it can help users gain access to an encrypted drive when they are unable to access it with the normal password (e.g., if forgotten or lost).
You need to back up the BitLocker recovery key to a secure location, separate from the protected device. It can be stored in your Microsoft account, a USB flash drive, a file, or a printout. Microsoft Entra ID and AD DS can be selected if your device is joined to the corresponding domain. Please note that you can't store the recovery key in the following locations:
● The encrypted drive/volume.
● The root directory of a non-removable drive, such as "D:" or "E:".
Caution: Make sure you keep the recovery key safe. Once lost, there is no way to get it back.
The BitLocker recovery key is a password used to regain access to an encrypted drive when you are on the recovery screen. This provides users with an alternative method to access an encrypted drive. Back it up so you are prepared in case something unexpected happens.
Should I update the BitLocker recovery key regularly, or does it update automatically? If it doesn't update automatically, how can I update it manually?
Benjamin
PIN BitLocker in Windows 11 and BitLocker password are two totally different things, because their protection mechanism is not the same. Following I will answer your questions in detail.
Lydia
Is it possible to recover data after it has been deleted from a BitLocker-encrypted drive? This post will provide the answer.
Benjamin
BitLocker is actually a reliable data encryption tool. However, the frequent prompt to enter the BitLocker recovery password is also a very disturbing thing. Now I’ll tell you which operations can trigger BitLocker and How to avoid it.
Lydia
