Bitlocker

About

Bitlocker encrypts your hard drive(s), thus protecting any sensitive data in the event your computer is stolen. Bitlocker only protects data at rest from an offline attack. For example, it should protect you if a malicious user stole your hard drive and attempted to connect it to another machine to steal data. However, it can not protect against somebody gaining access via stolen credentials.

Bitlocker Recovery

Bitlocker Recovery scenarios can be triggered for a number of reasons; read here for a complete list of what causes bitlocker recovery scenarios.

When a bitlocker recovery is triggered, the following screen is displayed

In the event that your computer has encountered a Bitlocker Recovery Scenario, unlock it by following the steps below

Windows 11

Note: disconnect locked computer from dock, remove all USB drives, and eject any optical drives before attempting recovery

1. On a separate device, log into account.microsoft.com with your university credentials
2. Click on Devices > select your device name
3. Click View Bitlocker Keys
4. Type Bitlocker key into locked computer

If your device is not listed, please contact the Help Desk.

Windows 10

1. On a separate device, log into WPConnect & Search for Bitlocker.
2. Click the Bitlocker link to access the bitlocker recovery. Log in with your University Credentials.
3. Enter the first 8 characters of the Recovery ID as well as the reason and click "Get Key"
   
4. The key will be shown beside the number 2
   
5. Type the Recovery Key onto your device
   • In the event that the Recovery Key fails, please contact the IT Help Desk with your Recovery ID.
6. After the computer boots up it will re-encrypt. The following window will pop up after encryption is complete: