How to Save Your BitLocker Recovery Key

Step by step

1. 1 min

   Open the BitLocker Drive Encryption control panel

   Press the Windows key and type 'Manage BitLocker'. Select the result labeled 'Manage BitLocker' from the Control Panel search results. This opens the main encryption management interface.

   Note: Win + S
2. 30 sec

   Access the backup options

   Find the drive listed under Operating system drives. Click the link titled 'Back up your recovery key' located directly beneath the drive status.

   Note: If you do not see this link, your drive may not be currently encrypted or the key is already backed up.
3. 1 min

   Select a storage destination

   Choose from the available backup methods: Save to your Microsoft account, Save to a file, or Print the recovery key. Select 'Save to your Microsoft account' for the most reliable cloud-based recovery.

   Note: Avoid saving the file to the drive you are encrypting, as you will be unable to access it during a recovery scenario.
4. 30 sec

   Verify the backup

   If saving to a file, ensure the .txt file is moved to a secure, external location, such as an encrypted USB flash drive or a secure password manager. Open the file to confirm the 48-digit numerical password is visible and accurate.

   Note: Never store the recovery key on the internal hard drive or in plaintext on a cloud storage service accessible to unauthorized users.
5. 30 sec

   Close the recovery wizard

   Once you have successfully backed up the key, click 'Finish' to close the dialogue box. The BitLocker management panel will now reflect that your drive is fully protected with a backed-up recovery key.

   Note: Test your ability to access the key via your Microsoft account profile page before closing all windows.