Find your BitLocker recovery key

Where is the BitLocker recovery key located?

Answer:  This all depends on the choice made when activating the BitLocker.

1. Connected to your Microsoft Account:

From another device, get to the myrecoverykey url

Sign in with your MS account to find the Key ID

Use that key to unlock the target drive

TIPS:

If the device was setup or if Bitlocker was turned on for example by another person the recovery key may be in that other person’s MS account.

Also, in Win 11, 24H2, BitLocker Recovery shows a hint of MS account tied to the recovery key.

If the device signed in the Org using work or school account, the key could be in the Org account.  Therefore, you may be able to grab it directly or seek help with your Admin.  Follow steps below!

From another device, get to the aadrecoverykey url to sign in with your work or school account

Select Devices and expand the device you need the recovery key for.

Select the View BitLocker Keys option

Use the Key ID you selected to find the target recovery key to unlock the target drive.

You manually printed out your recovery key once BitLocker was activated.  You will need to find that printout.  Many people will not remember where they placed it!

Obtain the flash drive (If you are able to locate it), plug it in the and follow the steps to retrieve the data.

TIP:  If saved as text, use a different device to read it.

What are my options if I CANNOT locate the recovery key?

If managed by your Org, check with them such as your IT or Help Desk so they can obtain it for you from their storage location.

If you cannot locate it, then you will have to reset your device which WILL remove all your files so you are aware.  You can search, “Recovery options in Windows” for example to find instructions to walk you through the steps.