BitLocker recovery: Enter the recovery key to get going again
Most likely cause: Normal security check after a BIOS/UEFI update, hardware change, or multiple incorrect PIN attempts
Try first: Locate your recovery key
Likely causes
- Normal security check after a BIOS/UEFI update, hardware change, or multiple incorrect PIN attemptsmost likely
- TPM chip issue or configuration change on the motherboardpossible
- Corrupted boot files or unexpected shutdownless likely
How to fix it
Locate your recovery keySafe
Check your Microsoft account online at account.microsoft.com, look for a printed copy you saved when BitLocker was enabled, or check another device signed into the same account.
Enter the key at the promptSafe
Type the 48-digit key exactly when the recovery screen appears and press Enter to unlock the drive.
Suspend BitLocker temporarily after unlockingChanges settings
Open Settings > Update & Security > Device encryption (or BitLocker settings) and choose to suspend protection for the next restart if you plan further hardware changes.
⚠ This lowers protection until re-enabled.
If that didn't fix it
Search your Microsoft account for any other recovery keys or check email/printouts you may have stored when BitLocker was first turned on.
When to see a technician
If you cannot find any recovery key and the drive contains important data you cannot afford to lose, take the PC to a professional data-recovery service before attempting further changes.
Quick answers
- What does BitLocker recovery: Enter the recovery key to get going again mean?
- BitLocker is Windows' built-in drive encryption. The PC has detected a possible change (such as a hardware alteration or failed boot check) and is now locked until you enter the 48-digit recovery key to unlock the drive.
- What causes BitLocker recovery: Enter the recovery key to get going again?
- Normal security check after a BIOS/UEFI update, hardware change, or multiple incorrect PIN attempts. (most likely) TPM chip issue or configuration change on the motherboard. (possible) Corrupted boot files or unexpected shutdown. (less likely)
- How do I fix BitLocker recovery: Enter the recovery key to get going again?
- Try these in order, safest first: 1. Locate your recovery key. 2. Enter the key at the prompt. 3. Suspend BitLocker temporarily after unlocking.
- What if that didn't fix it?
- Search your Microsoft account for any other recovery keys or check email/printouts you may have stored when BitLocker was first turned on.
- When should I see a technician?
- If you cannot find any recovery key and the drive contains important data you cannot afford to lose, take the PC to a professional data-recovery service before attempting further changes.