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What is a BitLocker PIN?
BitLocker is the encryption software installed on all UD-owned Windows laptops. If you have forgotten your BitLocker PIN, follow the steps below to obtain a recovery key and unlock the encrypted computer. This service can be performed on and off campus.
Is BitLocker PIN secure?
Yes, BitLocker provides a secure protection for data if a laptop is stolen. However, consider the convenience for the user vs. the additional protection the pre-boot PIN provides. With the PIN-enabled, an authorized user needs to enter the PIN for every boot.
What do you need to know about encryption in BitLocker?
Any time you deal with encryption, you need to know about keys, and BitLocker is no exception. BitLocker uses an elegant, but somewhat complex, architecture of keys. The sectors themselves are encrypted using a key called the full-volume encryption key (FVEK). The FVEK, though, is not used by or accessible to users.
Can you use BitLocker if you dont have a startup pin?
If you have a Home version of Windows, you won’t be able to use BitLocker. You may have the Device Encryption feature instead, but this works differently from BitLocker and doesn’t allow you to provide a startup key. Once you’ve enabled BitLocker, you’ll need to go out of your way to enable a PIN with it.
What happens to the volume master key if BitLocker is suspended?
If BitLocker has been suspended, the clear key that is used to encrypt the volume master key is also stored in the encrypted drive, along with the encrypted volume master key. This storage process ensures that the volume master key is never stored unencrypted and is protected unless you disable BitLocker.
Can you use BitLocker on home version of Windows?
If you have a Home version of Windows, you won’t be able to use BitLocker. You may have the Device Encryption feature instead, but this works differently from BitLocker and doesn’t allow you to provide a startup key.