BitLocker-encrypted drive won't open: can the data be recovered?
Every attempt you make can turn recoverable data into data that can no longer be recovered.
If a BitLocker-encrypted disk will not open, the most important piece of information is the recovery key: a 48-digit code that is usually found in your Microsoft account, your organisation's account, on a USB drive or on a printed sheet of paper. Without the key and the password, accessing the data may be possible with some BitLocker encryptions and not with others; we determine this through analysis. If the disk also has a physical fault, that fault must be dealt with first. If your data matters, do not experiment on the disk.
- Look for the recovery key: your Microsoft account (account.microsoft.com/devices/recoverykey), your work or school account, a USB drive, a paper printout.
- Compare the key's identifier (Key ID) with the number shown on the screen.
- Stop using the disk.
- Write down when the problem started and what was done just before (an update, a hardware change).
- Do not format the disk, and do not turn BitLocker off and on again.
- Do not reset BIOS/UEFI or TPM settings at random.
- Do not trust 'BitLocker cracker' programs downloaded from the internet.
- Do not keep running a faulty disk.
Why does BitLocker ask for a recovery key?
BitLocker asks for the recovery key when the computer's hardware or boot settings change. A BIOS update, a motherboard replacement, a TPM reset or connecting the disk to another computer can cause this. It is a security feature.
Where might the recovery key be?
- The Microsoft account you used when you turned on BitLocker
- Your organisation's Entra ID (Azure AD) or Active Directory record, or its IT department
- A USB drive it was saved to during setup
- A printed paper copy or a saved text file
What happens if there is no key?
BitLocker uses strong encryption. Without the recovery key and the password, accessing the data may be possible with some BitLocker encryptions and may not be possible with others. We cannot tell which applies to your disk without carrying out the work. If you have not been able to find your key, contact us without formatting the disk or experimenting on it.
What if the disk also has a physical fault?
An encrypted disk can have head, firmware or file system faults just like any other. In that case the fault has to be dealt with first; the data is then reached with the key. Keep your key ready. If there is a clicking noise, see our clicking noise page.
How long does it take and how much does it cost?
Standard jobs take 10 business days on average, urgent jobs 24 business hours on average. The actual time depends on the type of fault, sourcing the parts needed and the capacity of the disk. Some jobs are completed within a few hours, while others can take months.
The price depends on the type of fault, the parts needed and the time the work takes. After the analysis we send you the exact price in writing. If you do not accept the quote, you get your device back without paying. Not every case falls within the free analysis scope. For requests outside the free analysis scope, you receive written information about the analysis fee before any work begins. For details, see what determines the price and how long it takes.
Can the data always be recovered?
No. Without the recovery key and the password, reaching the data may be possible for some BitLocker encryptions. For some BitLocker-encrypted devices, recovering the data may not be possible. Even if you have your key, some or all of the data may not be recoverable if the disk is physically damaged. We cannot know the outcome without carrying out an analysis. After the analysis, you will be informed about the situation.
Frequently asked questions
I forgot my password but I have the recovery key. Can I open the disk?
Yes. The recovery key takes the place of the password.
It asked for the key after a Windows update. Why?
An update or a change in hardware settings can trigger BitLocker's security check. If you enter the key, the disk opens. If you cannot find the key, you can contact us for data recovery work.
How can I tell whether I saved the key to my Microsoft account?
Sign in with your account at account.microsoft.com/devices/recoverykey. Saved keys are listed there. On company computers, the key is usually held by the IT department.
Do I pay anything if I don't accept the quote?
No. If you do not accept the quote after the analysis, you get your device back without paying. In cases where it cannot be foreseen at which stage the data will become reachable, the price may be set after the data has been recovered, based on the time and resources spent on the work. In that case you are under no obligation to pay. Not every case falls within the free analysis scope. For requests outside the free analysis scope, you receive written information about the analysis fee before any work begins.
Let's assess your situation together: call 0212 909 56 19 or write to us on WhatsApp. See our contact page for the address and opening hours.
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