Bitlocker and Windows 11 - how to protect your computer.

Computer running Windows 11? You need to read about Bitlocker

By default, all versions of Microsoft Windows 11 have a security feature called BitLocker enabled.

It’s a force for good, until it’s not.

One of the reasons the 2024 Microsoft CrowdStrike global cyber-Incident took so long to recover was because of it.

What is Bitlocker?

BitLocker is the part of the Windows Operating System that encrypts the data on the Hard Drives and SSDs of the computer. It’s designed to prevent data theft if your device is physically stolen.

Unfortunately, under certain conditions – Windows updates, firmware updates, hardware failure, – the data on your computer can be locked. With little way of accessing it, which can be a disaster.

If you turn on your computer and see a blue screen asking to enter a BitLocker recovery key, you need to have already saved the key and be prepared.

If you turn on your computer and see a blue screen asking to enter a BitLocker recovery key, you need to have already saved the key and be prepared.

Here is what you can do:

  1. For Home users, log into your computer with a Microsoft Account. During the setup of your PC, Windows will ask you to either sign in with a Microsoft account or create one. The BitLocker key can be accessed here: https://account.microsoft.com/devices.

(For corporate and business users, there are several other options that we can discuss with you)

  1. Manually backup or record your BitLocker key. The easiest way to do this is to search for Manage BitLocker from your start menu or Control Panel. Once you find it, follow the on-screen prompts.
  2. Backup your computer. Get yourself a USB Hard Drive and setup File History, Windows Backup or, use a 3rd Party backup utility. If the backup drive is connected, File History will automatically backup your important files on a regular basis.
  3. Store all files on OneDrive, Dropbox, Google Drive, or similar online file storage. So that if your device is damaged or locked, you can still access all your important files.
  4. Turn BitLocker off. For home users, this could be an option. You can do this through the BitLocker Control Panel (see 2. Above).

It is critical that all Windows 11 users are aware of the BitLocker feature and take action to manage it.

Otherwise, you could find that your computer is locked and as useful as a brick.

Help

If you are at all confused or want help with this call us on 1300 796 788 or email [email protected]

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