TPM is enabled in BIOS but not usable in Windows. Dell Alienware 17 R5

Question

I have enabled Secure boot and TPM in BIOS. I have Windows 11.
Under System Information it says that Secure Boot State is : On

PCR7 Configuration: Binding Not Possible

Device Encryption Support: "Reasons for failed automatic device encryption: TPM is not usable, PCR7 binding is not supported, Hardware Security Test Interface failed and device is not Modern Standby, Un-allowed DMA capable bus/device(s) detected, TPM is not usable."
I also cannot find TPM in security devices in device manager.
Earlier when trying to fix aforementioned error I found it in "Hidden devices", but it could not be enabled. I tried uninstalling it and rebooting my PC, but it simply disappeared from hidden devices and the rest of the problem remained the same.

Answer 1

Hello,

It seems like your TPM is either disabled or not functioning correctly. It could also be that a discrete TPM is not installed and your device only supports Firmware TPM (fTPM). You can check for TPM in the BIOS settings. However, without the correct TPM (Version 2.0 for Windows 11), Secure Boot and certain encryption features may not function correctly.

Here are some possible solutions:

First, update your BIOS. Visit your PC manufacturer’s website and download the latest BIOS version. Apply the update through methods provided by the manufacturer, then affirm whether the TPM and Secure Boot issue still exists.

In your BIOS settings, check if you have an option to enable or disable TPM or fTPM (it may also be labeled as Intel PTT or AMD PSP fTPM). If TPM 2.0 or fTPM is specifically available, then make sure to enable that. Specific instructions will vary based on the motherboard manufacturer.

Update your drivers. Particularly make sure your chipset drivers are up to date. Visit the PC manufacturer’s website or the motherboard manufacturer’s site to get the latest.

Consider doing a clean re-install of Windows 11 or try to check for update to install the latest security update to check. Sometimes, upgrading directly from a previous version of Windows to Windows 11 can cause these sort of issues. Before proceeding, make sure to back up your files.

Best Regards,

Hania Lian

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Answer 2

• Some manufacturers offer firmware updates for the TPM itself. Check your motherboard manufacturer's website to see if any TPM firmware updates are available for your system.
• Clearing the CMOS memory can sometimes reset BIOS settings to defaults, which may resolve any conflicting configurations.
• Visit your motherboard manufacturer's website and download and install the latest drivers for your specific model.