In this article, we will show you how to retrieve BitLocker Recovery Key in Windows 11 conveniently via Command Prompt. BitLocker is an encryption feature that secures your files and data from unauthorized access by encrypting the entire hard drive. It can only be accessed with a password or smartcard that you set up while enabling BitLocker drive encryption. If you forget your password or lose your smartcard, you can use the BitLocker recovery key to access the encrypted drive.
To avoid losing your BitLocker recovery key, you can store it in your Microsoft account, a USB flash drive, save it to file, or print it out. If you want to retrieve the BitLocker recovery key in Windows 11, follow the steps below.
How to Retrieve Windows 11 BitLocker Recovery Key via Command Prompt
- Open the Command Prompt in Windows 11 as an administrator.
- Once the command prompt opens, type and enter the command: manage-bde -protectors H: -get
- To save the recovery key to a text file on a different drive, enter the command: manage-bde -protectors H: -get >> K: RCkey.txt
- The recovery key details will be saved in a file called RCkey.text on drive K. You can customize the location by changing K: with any valid drive letter you like.
Final Words
The BitLocker recovery key is an essential thing to have if you forget your password, PIN, or smart card. By following the simple steps above, you will be able to retrieve your Windows 11 BitLocker recovery key via command prompt easily. If your computer fails to start up, or you can’t log in to your account, you can access your files by decrypting the encrypted drive with the BitLocker recovery key. Ensure to keep your BitLocker recovery key in a safe and accessible location to avoid losing it. We hope you enjoyed reading our article, feel free to share it with your friends and colleagues.
FAQ
1. Where is the BitLocker recovery key stored?
The BitLocker recovery key can be stored in your Microsoft account, saved to a USB flash drive or file, or printed out in hard copy.
2. Can I use the BitLocker recovery key on another computer?
No, you can only use the BitLocker recovery key on the computer for which it was created.
3. How do I know if my drive is currently encrypted with BitLocker?
You can check your drive’s encryption status by opening the BitLocker Drive Encryption Control Panel applet, or by running the command “manage-bde -status” in Command Prompt.
4. How do I save the BitLocker recovery key to my Microsoft account?
On Windows 11, go to “Start > Settings > Accounts > Your info,” then click “Sign in with a Microsoft account instead.” Once signed in, select “Device encryption” and click “Back up your recovery key.” Finally, follow the prompts to save your recovery key to your Microsoft account.