Will BitLocker slow down computer startup speed?

Of course, when BitLocker is enabled on a computer, it will not only affect the startup speed but also other computer performance. BitLocker performs comprehensive security checks during the boot-up process, to ensure that system is in a trusted environment. This verification process may consume a certain amount of time.

BitLocker Boot-time Checks Aspects

1. System integrity check: It checks the integrity of boot loader, system files, and system drivers to ensure that the system has not been tampered with or affected by malware during the boot process.

2. Hardware and firmware validation: It checks key components such as the motherboard, BIOS, UEFI firmware to ensure that the computer is in a trusted state when it boots up.

3. TPM authentication: If the computer has a Trusted Platform Module (TPM), BitLocker will also authenticate the TPM. It verifies the status and security of the TPM and ensures that communication between the TPM and the system is protected.

How to Speed up Computer Startup Time with BitLocker Enabled?

By enabling the automatic unlock feature, BitLocker allows users to automatically unlock encrypted drives without manually entering a password or key thus save lots of time. Steps of activating Automatic BitLocker Unlock:

Step 1 Type "BitLocker" in the Windows Search box, then click to enter into BitLocker Drive Encryption control panel.

Step 2 Choose the specific drive and click on the "Turn on auto-unlock" link.

Step 3 Restart your computer, and BitLocker’s automatic unlock feature will take effect at next boot time.

The security verification performed by BitLocker during computer startup is crucial for safety guard. Usually, this process doesn't take much time, and you just need to wait patiently.