Windows 10: Can't boot computer unless my BitLocker Key is typed in

I don't remember turning on BitLocker for my laptop and now all of a sudden my computer won't boot unless I have my key. I tried searching it up in my Microsoft account but there was no hope. I have a lot of important files on my drive is there any way Microsoft can look up my key so I can get access to my computer back?

:)

 

Can't locate the bitlocker key

Hi Chris,

Thank you for writing to Microsoft community forums.

I understand that it can be difficult when your own computer is inaccessible due to some changes that could have happened. However, let's try a few troubleshooting steps and see if we can access the drive.

• Are you aware of any changes that happened on the computer prior to this issue?
  
• Did you setup a BitLocker on your device before?
  

If you’ve not setup the BitLocker and it’s still prompting for the key, you may try to locate the BitLocker key on your Microsoft account, which will help you access the drive. Refer

Find my BitLocker recovery key to know how to find the BitLocker recovery key.

If no recovery key is found, you may enable the secure boot setting from BIOS and check if you can access the drive. Follow the steps listed below to enable
secure boot.

• Power off the device and then power it on.
  
• Look for a message on the boot screen just before or after the manufacturer logo appears. You may need to press the
  ‘F1’,’F2’, or
  ‘Delete’ button, whatever key is indicated on the boot screen to enter BIOS Settings.
  
• Within BIOS, choose the tab ‘BOOT’.
  

Note:
Depending on the BIOS manufacturer this page could be
BOOT, ADVANCED, STARTUP etc.

• Look for a setting called
  ‘UEFI Secure Boot’ and toggle the Secure Boot setting to
  ‘Enabled’.
  

Note:
Each BIOS could have a different name for
UEFI Secure Boot.
These are the keywords to look for:
‘UEFI’, ‘Secure Boot’,‘Legacy Boot’.

• Restart the machine now to see if you can access the drive.
  

Note:

Modifying BIOS/ complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) settings incorrectly can cause serious problems that may prevent your computer from booting properly. Microsoft cannot guarantee that any problems resulting from the
configuring of BIOS/CMOS settings can be solved. Modifications of the settings are at your own risk.

If you still can’t access the drive, I suggest you to post your query in the

TechNet forums. Our support professionals, equipped with knowledge on BitLocker, will help you further.

Regards,

 

BitLocker Key

There may be a software that triggered the BitLocker in your Windows 10 PC. To assist you better, we suggest that you check these articles for further information:

• Find my BitLocker recovery key.
• BitLocker recovery keys: Frequently asked questions.

• BitLocker

Let us know if you need further assistance.

 

why doesn't my bitlocker make me type a password?

Hi,

I understand that you have issue with Bitlocker password. I will certainly assist you with this.

Please provide us below details for better assistance,

• 
  Is your Bitlocker enabled on your system?
  
• 
  Have you made any changes on your system before this issue?
  

Please follow these steps and check if that helps.

Method 1: I suggest you to start the BitLocker Device Encryption service.

Follow the below steps:

1. Press Windows key + R from the Keyboard.

2. Type services.msc and hit Enter.

3. Search for BitLocker Device Encryption service.

4. Double click on BitLocker Device Encryption service and click on Start button.

5. Click on the dropdown list and set the Startup type to Automatic.

If the issue persists then change the password and change the settings on how drive is unlocked at startup.



Hope it will fix your issue. Please let us know the status of your issue.

Thank You.