Sep 5, 2023 · I am trying to factory reset a computer that has a drive encrypted by Bitlocker and running Windows 11. I have no way to recover the key, so my goal is only to perform a clean install of Windows.

Sep 21, 2020 · If you are asked for a Recovery Key, not a Windows 10 Product key, that means the drive on that PC is encrypted with Bitlocker by the previous owner and you would need that key to unlock the hard drive on that PC

If you can’t find the BitLocker recovery key and are unable to undo any changes that caused it to be needed, you’ll have to reset your device using one of the Windows recovery options. Resetting your device will remove all of your files. Learn how to find your BitLocker recovery key in …

Jan 2, 2020 · Change your Bitlocker recovery key in Windows 10 by following these simple steps. Learn how to delete an existing recovery key and add a new one using Command Prompt commands.

Dec 5, 2024 · BitLocker recovery is the process by which access to a BitLocker-protected drive can be restored if the drive doesn't unlock using its default unlock mechanism. This article describes scenarios that trigger BitLocker recovery, how to configure devices to save recovery information, and the options to restore access to a locked drive.

Without the bitlocker key, you cannot use the reset feature because it is still part of Windows feature, and Windows is encrypted now. You need to do a clean install instead. To perform a clean installation of Windows 10 using the Windows Media Creation Tool.

Mar 7, 2025 · You must reset your device using one of the Windows recovery options, if you cannot locate a BitLocker recovery key or revert a configuration change. Resetting your device removes all your files. Recovery keys may be saved in several ways depending on the version of Windows installed.

If you use BitLocker Drive Encryption, you must have manually saved the recovery key to your Microsoft account to use this procedure. If there is a problem and you are unable to sign in, you must use the recovery key to sign in.

Apr 4, 2025 · Luckily, there is a way to recover BitLocker, if you have the recovery key. [1] Visit the OneDrive website to locate your PC name and recovery key. Alternatively, look for a copy of the key on a USB drive or sheet of paper. Turn your computer on and continue the boot into BitLocker Recovery.

Sep 11, 2024 · These steps will guide you through locating and using your BitLocker recovery key to unlock your Windows 10 computer. Your BitLocker recovery key might be saved to your Microsoft account. Log in to your Microsoft account on another device, navigate to the "Devices" section, and look for your recovery key under the listed devices.