When BitLocker encryption turns on, it makes data stored on the encrypted drive unreadable. To make it readable again, users need to authenticate themselves by providing the correct Bitlocker password, BitLocker recovery key, or Startup key that helps to unlock BitLocker encrypted drive.
When you start up the OS or try to get into an external data storage device that BitLocker protects, you have to enter a password. When setting up BitLocker for the first time, the user is the one who generates it.
The system creates an unique 48-digit BitLocker recovery key when BitLocker is turned on for the first time for a storage device. This key is also known as a Microsoft or BitLocker recovery key. If you lose the password or don’t have a password, you can use it to decode the data even if you don’t have the password itself.
This is how the BitLocker key itself look:
******-******-******-******-******-******-******-******.
A Startup key is a hidden *.bek file on a USB drive that works the same way as a BitLocker recovery key. The boot encrypted partition can be automatically decrypted without the user having to enter a password.
Unlock BitLocker Encrypted Drive
- For unlocking the BitLocker encrypted drive, put password or BitLocker recovery key. See the below image1 and image2.
Enter password
Enter BitLocker recovery key
Recover Data from Encrypted Drive
To recover data from BitLocker encrypted drive, you will need to use of a data recovery tool that is provided by a third party.
BLR BitLocker data recovery tool is a popular choice among users. When data loss occurs at random, you can use this tool to recover data as soon as possible.
Then, follow the below steps to recover data from a BitLocker encrypted drive.
Step 1: Run the BLR BitLocker data recovery tool and go to the main interface. Under the Logical Drives section, select BitLocker encrypted drive and click Scan to start detecting files.
Step 2: BLR data recovery software will show you the files it found when it’s done scanning. You can preview them and select the files that you want to get back.
Step 3: After selecting desired data you need to enter recover button for recovering the selected lost data.
Need: You need to enter an activation key for storing the selected data. In BLR Tools there are different plans. You need to choose one of them according to your need. By taking a plan you will get an activation key that helps you to store your lost data.
Q: How do I unlock my BitLocker encrypted drive?
You can unlock your BitLocker encrypted drive by entering your password, PIN, or using a recovery key.
Q: What are the steps to decrypt my BitLocker encrypted drive?
To decrypt your drive, unlock it using your password or recovery key, then go to Control Panel > System and Security > BitLocker Drive Encryption, select your drive, right click “manage BitLocker”and Turn off BitLocker.
Q: What do I need to unlock my encrypted drive?
To unlock your encrypted drive, you’ll need the password or BitLocker recovery key. When activating BitLocker encryption on your device, you can choose to save the BitLocker recovery key in your Microsoft account or a .txt file for future reference. This key is essential for accessing your encrypted data in case of any issues with your device.
Q: Can I re-encrypt the drive after recovering the data?
Yes, we can re-encrypt the drive with BitLocker after recovering the data.
Q: Is BLR BitLocker Recovery Tool helpful?
BLR Tools can only help if you have saved the recovery key to your drive.
Also Read: Best Recovery Management Solutions for Assets
BitLocker Recovery Key and BitLocker Password
| Field | Description |
|---|---|
| BitLocker Recovery Key | A 48-digit numerical key generated by BitLocker, used to unlock a locked drive when the password or encryption key is lost. |
| BitLocker Password | A user-defined password that provides access to the encrypted drive. |
| Usage | – The recovery key is used as a backup method to regain access in case the password is forgotten or corrupted. – The password is the primary way to unlock the drive. |
| Storage Options | – Recovery key can be stored in: – Microsoft account – USB flash drive – Printed on paper – Saved in a file on another drive. – Password should be securely remembered or stored. |
| Recovery Process | – Enter the 48-digit recovery key when prompted to unlock the drive. – Enter the password to unlock the drive normally. |
| Importance | – It is critical to store the recovery key in a safe place because, without it, you might permanently lose access to your encrypted data. – Passwords should be strong and secure. |
| Reset Options | – The recovery key cannot be reset but can be regenerated and saved in a different location. – The password can be changed or reset using BitLocker management tools. |
| Best Practices | – Store multiple copies of the recovery key in different secure locations. – Use a strong, complex password and change it periodically to enhance security. |
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