Summary
This article explains what to do if your computer repeatedly asks for a BitLocker recovery key when starting up. Users can find their recovery key through Microsoft's BitLocker Recovery Key tool or contact IT for assistance, though identity verification is required before a key can be provided.
Body
If you are receiving a request for your BitLocker key every time you restart or shutdown your computer, use these instructions to find your BitLocker recovery key. You can also submit a ticket to us to get this key but will need to prove your identity before a recovery key can be sent.
The following image is an example of the BitLocker Recovery screen:
If you are seeing this issue on a university-owned device, try powering the device all the way down, waiting a few seconds, and then powering it back on. In some cases, this will fix the issue and you can log back into the computer.
If your computer continues to prompt for a BitLocker Key on start up, even after entering the correct key, there may be an issue with the BIOS settings or BitLocker's encryption. IT will assist in resolving these issues. Use the Report a Software Issue / Ask a Question service to request help.
Common BIOS settings that can cause BitLocker to prompt:
- Date and time being incorrect
- TPM being disabled