Remember that password you created earlier? Now is the time to enter it.Īfter logging into Windows 10, you will notice there is not much happening. When you are ready to encrypt, click Continue. If it is a fixed drive, choose this option.
If you are running the Windows 10 November Update, it includes a more robust encryption mode called XTS-AES providing additional integrity support with an improved algorithm. Make sure your computer is on UPS power in case of a power failure. Note, it will take some time especially if it’s a large drive. Since I was already using this computer, I will go with the second option. If it’s already in use, choose the second option - Encrypt the entire drive. You have two choices when encrypting your local disk if it is a new computer just pulled out of the box, use the Encrypt used disk space only.
I will save my own to another computer then print a copy. Then right-click your system drive where Windows 10 is installed, then click Turn on BitLocker.Įnter a password to unlock your drive this will be an important test to ensure you can boot the system if you happen to lose the recovery key.Ĭhoose how you want to back up your recovery key, you can use your Microsoft account if you have one, save it to a USB thumb drive, save it somewhere other than the local drive or print a copy. Turn on BitLocker Drive Encryption in Windows 10Ĭlick Start > File Explorer > This PC. Please review the troubleshooting steps further down in this article.
Please note, though, the new encryption standard is only compatible with other Windows 10 November Update systems.
If you are running Windows 10 Home, you will need to perform an Easy Upgrade to Windows 10 Pro to get it.
Why Microsoft does not make this a standard feature across all editions is still mind-boggling, considering that encrypting data is one of the most effective ways to help keep it secure. For Windows 10, you need to be running the Pro or Enterprise edition.