BitLocker is a full-disk encryption feature that is included in some editions of Microsoft Windows. It is designed to protect data by encrypting the entire drive, including system files and user data. Here are some key things to know about BitLocker:
1. Supported versions: BitLocker is included in the Ultimate and Enterprise editions of Windows Vista and Windows 7, the Pro and Enterprise editions of Windows 8 and Windows 8.1, and the Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions of Windows 10.
2. Activation: BitLocker needs to be activated on a computer before it can be used. This can be done by using the BitLocker Drive Encryption Control Panel or by using the Command Prompt.
3. Encryption modes: BitLocker supports two encryption modes: AES-CBC 128-bit and AES-CBC 256-bit. AES-CBC 128-bit is suitable for most situations, while AES-CBC 256-bit is more secure but requires a more powerful computer to handle the encryption.
4. Recovery key: When BitLocker is activated, a recovery key is generated that can be used to unlock the drive if the normal method of unlocking the drive is not available. This recovery key should be stored in a secure location and should not be stored on the same drive that is being encrypted.
5. Compatibility: BitLocker-encrypted drives can be accessed from other computers running Windows 7 or later, but not from computers running earlier versions of Windows or other operating systems.
6. TPM: BitLocker can also use the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) hardware chip that is built into many modern computers to store encryption keys, making it even more secure.
Overall, BitLocker is a powerful tool for protecting sensitive data on a Windows computer, and it is relatively easy to use once it is activated. However, it is important to remember to back up the recovery key and store it in a secure location in case it is needed in the future.
To use BitLocker in Windows 11, follow these steps:
- Open the Start menu and click on "Settings".
- Click on "System" and then on "Storage".
- Under the list of storage devices, click on the drive that you want to encrypt with BitLocker.
- Click on "Turn on BitLocker" and wait for Windows to check if your device meets the system requirements for using BitLocker.
- Choose a way to unlock your drive, either by using a password or a smart card.
- Enter your chosen method of authentication and click on "Next".
- Choose how you want to store the recovery key for your drive, either by printing it or saving it to a file.
- Choose whether to encrypt only the used space on the drive or the entire drive, and click on "Next".
- Wait for Windows to encrypt your drive. The time this takes will depend on the size of your drive and the speed of your computer.
- Once encryption is complete, you can view the status of your encrypted drive by going to "Settings" > "System" > "Storage" and clicking on the encrypted drive.
That's it! Your drive is now encrypted with BitLocker. Whenever you start your computer, you'll need to enter your chosen method of authentication to unlock the drive and access your data. Remember to keep your recovery key in a safe place, as it will be required if you ever forget your password or lose your smart card.
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