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Bitlocker Keeps Asking for Recovery Key on Windows 11 [Fix]
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5 min. read
Updated onJanuary 9, 2024
updated onJanuary 9, 2024
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Key notes
BitLocker is a Windows feature that allows you to encrypt the device. For users with Windows 11 asking for a BitLocker recovery key at startup, the following instructions may assist you in locating the 48-digit key that you’ll require to unlock the device.
The problem is intricate, but you should be able to get the thing running in a short while, though in some cases, a clean reinstall of Windows 11 is the only option if the BitLocker recovery key is lost.
Why is BitLocker asking for a recovery key every time Windows 11?
Here are some of the reasons BitLocker is asking for a recovery key in Windows 11:
The error is usually encountered on the following devices:
What can I do if Bitlocker keeps asking for a recovery key at startup on Windows 11?
Before you take things into your hand and try the complex solutions, here are a few things that might help:
If you couldn’t get the recovery key, check the solutions below.
1. Check your Microsoft Account for the recovery key
You can easily bypass the issue using the BitLocker recovery key. And it shouldn’t take more than a minute. Also, as stated earlier, the recovery key might as well be uploaded to the other Microsoft accounts used to sign into the computer.
If you don’t have any recovery keys uploaded to the Microsoft account, head to the following method.
2. Uninstall Windows 11 updates
You can uninstall updates from the Recovery Mode in Windows 11 and get BitLocker to stop asking for a key. If this doesn’t work, head to the following method.
3. Update the BIOS
Another solution that worked for many was updating the BIOS on Windows 11. You will have to manually locate the update on the manufacturer’s website and download and install it.
Since the process is different for each manufacturer, we recommend checking the manual that came along with the computer, looking it up in the support section on the official website, or getting in touch with a professional.
4. Reinstall Windows
If nothing has worked, your last option is to install Windows 11 all over again. And for that, the bootable USB you created earlier would come in handy.
Remember that a clean install of the OS would delete all files, apps, and configured settings on the PC. But that’s the only option left now!
BitLocker asking for a recovery key in Windows 11 is an intricate problem with few solutions, and users usually end up reinstalling the OS to fix things. Even more, we have a guide dedicated to those interested inobtaining the BitLocker Recovery Key via Command Prompt.
Once you have resolved the problem, find out how todisable BitLocker in Windows 11. Then, if you want to continue with it, save the key.
Was this guide helpful for you? Then, tell us in the comments section below whether you have more solutions.
More about the topics:Bitlocker,Windows 11
Vlad Turiceanu
Windows Editor
Passionate about technology,Windows, and everything that has a power button, he spent most of his time developing new skills and learning more about the tech world.
Coming from a solid background in PC building and software development, with a complete expertise in touch-based devices, he is constantly keeping an eye out for the latest and greatest!
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Vlad Turiceanu
Windows Editor
Coming from a solid background in PC building and software development, he’s a Windows 11 Privacy & Security expert.
