How to get a recovery key for my encrypted Windows device?

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Overview

This article covers how to retrieve a whole disk encryption recovery key for your Windows device. The self service portal can be access from any web browser, on desktop, laptop, or mobile phone.

If you encounter any issues or have any questions please contact your TSP or Local Support for assistance at support@uidaho.edu.

 

Desktop

Step 1

Login to the Microsoft self service portal at https://myprofile.microsoft.com/. The page uses standard UI Single Sign On with your NetID credentials.

Step 2

Click "Devices" on the left hand menu.

My account page

Step 3

Find the device in your device list and expand the down arrow.

Device list

Step 4

If the device's recovery key is available, a "View Bitlocker Keys" button should appear. Click it.

Down arrow clicked

Step 5

A list of keys should appear. If only one is listed, click "Show recovery key". If multiple are listed, compare the "Key ID:" fields with the key ID field shown on your Bitlocker recovery screen. Select the key whose ID matches what is shown on your Bitlocker recovery screen.

List of available keys

Step 6

A window should pop up with the key.

Recovery key displayed

Enter the key at your Bitlocker recovery prompt to access your computer.

Bitlocker recovery screen

Step 7

Once you have regained access to your device, reset your Bitlocker password. See Reset a forgotten Bitlocker password for steps to set a new password.

Mobile

You can retrieve a recovery from your mobile phone.

Step 1

Open a web browser app and login to the Microsoft self service portal at https://myprofile.microsoft.com/. The page uses standard UI Single Sign On with your NetID credentials.

Step 2

Tap the "Devices" tile.

Device list

Step 3

Find the device in your device list and tap the down arrow.

Device list

Step 4

If the device's recovery key is available, a "View Bitlocker Keys" button should appear. Tap it.

Device list device expanded

Step 5

A list of keys should appear. If only one is listed, click "Show recovery key". If multiple are listed, compare the "Key ID:" fields with the key ID field shown on your Bitlocker recovery screen. Select the key whose ID matches what is shown on your Bitlocker recovery screen.

List of bitlocker keys

Step 6

A window should pop up with the key.

Key in portrait view

The key sometimes doesn't display properly in portrait mode. If you can't see all of it, rotate your phone to landscape mode.

Landscape mode key view

Enter the key at your Bitlocker recovery prompt to access your computer.

This is a picture of the recovery key entry field.

Step 7

Once you have regained access to your device, reset your Bitlocker password. See Reset a forgotten Bitlocker password for steps to set a new password.

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