This recovery key is a unique 48-digit numerical password that works as a backup unlock method when BitLocker cannot verify your identity through normal login.

BitLocker recovery key saved my PC after an update locked me out. Here’s how I used the recovery key from my Microsoft account to unlock encrypted drives.

May’s KB5058379 update is causing some annoying problems, like making Windows request the BitLocker recovery key on startup on some Windows 10 PCs.

Microsoft has confirmed that some Windows 10 and Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 systems will boot into BitLocker recovery after installing the May 2025 security updates.