Windows BitLocker is an amazing feature of Windows computer that most Windows users don't know about. In this post, you will know what Windows Bitlocker is, how it works, its benefits and usage rules.
What is Windows BitLocker?
BitLocker is a native security feature of Windows that can encrypt files on any drive. Basically Windows BitLocker is used to provide maximum protection to any file. To decrypt the encrypted file, a specific key (Key) or simply password is required.
How does Windows Bitlocker work?
Windows BitLocker works through a hardware component called TPM or Trusted Platform Module. Bitlocker creates keys for hard drives that are useful for accessing said drives. There is also a recovery key which will come in handy if you forget the original key. This recovery must be stored in a safe place.
Bitlocker is an industry standard security system used by organizations around the world. If a drive on the computer is locked with BitLocker, then if you want to access that drive, you have to enter a specific password. If the password is forgotten, the drive can be unlocked with a separate recovery key. But if you lose both this recovery key and password then you will lose data.
BitLocker actually encrypts the files. As a result, their structure changes, which if not decrypted, no one can use those files. BitLocker will be easy for you to understand if you know about encryption .
Benefits of using BitLocker
BitLocker basically encrypts the computer drive, it is understood. BitLocker basically protects the computer from data breach or hack. BitLocker provides maximum protection to the entire drive using the TPM module. BitLocker can be set up to automatically save to Active Directory if desired.
Windows BitLocker does not require any additional software to encrypt files. It is built-in to Windows. Besides, Bitlocker does not have any significant effect on the read and write speed of the drive. Setting up bitlocker is also very easy which you can learn from this post.
What does it take to use BitLocker?
It's worth noting that BitLocker may not work on some computers or drives. Windows Bitlocker works on the following operating systems:
- Ultimate and Enterprise editions of Windows Vista and Windows 7 (TPM version must be at least 1.2 or higher and running)
- Pro and Enterprise editions of Windows 8 and 8.1
- Pro, Education and Enterprise editions of Windows 10 or 11
- Windows Server 2008 or newer
In addition to all this, the computer must be logged in as an administrator. Also a printer will be required to print the recovery key (optional).
Rules for using Windows BitLocker
To launch Bitlocker, type Manage Bitlocker in the search box of the start menu and search. Besides, you will find these settings in the dedicated section in the Device Encryption section. Note that BitLocker does not work on Windows 10 Home Edition. If your computer supports Bitlocker, you can use the feature with one click by turning on the Turn on Bitlocker option. You will then see the new settings, from where you can proceed step by step.
Now Windows will check the system settings and configuration to verify if Bitlocker will work on your computer. If the TPM module is disabled on your computer, Windows will automatically enable it. This step may require restarting the computer one or more times to verify that your computer is ready.
You will be prompted for a password before encryption begins. It will be used when accessing that drive every time you turn on your computer. You can provide it manually or use a USB drive if you want.
Now you will see the recovery key settings which PIN will be used when the computer cannot access. In Windows 10, you will see the options save the file to your Microsoft account, save to a flash drive, save to a local or cloud file, print the recovery key manually. Select the option that suits you best.
After clicking on Next, you will be asked to select how much part of your drive you want to encrypt. You will get two options “Used disk space only” and “whole drive”. The Used disk option works much faster and is a good option for new computers and drives. The Whole Drive option is more effective for already used drives. Note that this process will take a little longer if Whole drive is selected.
Windows 10 build 1511 or later may prompt you to select an encryption mode. From here the Compatible option is good for removable drives and works on older computers too. And the New option works in the case of device storage. Clicking the Run Bitlocker System check button will check your Windows system before starting the encryption process. Now restart the computer manually and enter the password. Now confirm when asked if you are ready to encrypt the selected drive.
The time it takes to encrypt files using BitLocker depends on how many or how many files you are encrypting. On a new computer this process will be completed very quickly, in about 20 minutes. On the other hand, it may take 2 to 3 hours for older computers. If you need to encrypt quickly, select the Used Disk space only option.
BitLocker Decryption Rules
You can decrypt your files at any time if you no longer need them. You will get the Turn off Bitlocker option by entering the manage Bitlocker or device encryption settings option in the control panel. If you are asked to confirm the matter, confirm and restart the computer.
In this way, you can use Windows BitLocker very easily. You can ensure maximum security by encrypting important files on your computer.