Hello Michael Hertzfeld,
Thank you for posting in Microsoft Community forum.
To unlock a drive encrypted with BitLocker using your recovery key, follow these steps:
- Insert the Drive (if applicable):
- If the drive you need to unlock is an external drive or USB stick, ensure it is properly connected to your computer.
- BitLocker Prompt:
- When you attempt to access the BitLocker-encrypted drive, you should see a BitLocker prompt asking for the recovery key.
- Enter the Recovery Key:
- In the BitLocker prompt, look for an option to enter the recovery key. This option might be labeled something like "Enter recovery key" or "More options" followed by "Enter recovery key."
- Type the Recovery Key:
- Carefully type the 48-digit recovery key into the provided field. The recovery key is usually divided into eight groups of six digits.
- Unlock the Drive:
- After entering the recovery key, confirm the action to unlock the drive. The drive should now be accessible.
If you have trouble finding the BitLocker prompt or if you're using a different method to unlock the drive, such as through the Windows Control Panel, here’s an alternative method:
- Open Control Panel:
- Go to the Start menu and type "Control Panel," then open it.
- Navigate to BitLocker Drive Encryption:
- In Control Panel, find and select "BitLocker Drive Encryption."
- Find the Locked Drive:
- You should see a list of drives with their BitLocker status. Locate the drive that is locked.
- Unlock Drive with Recovery Key:
- For the locked drive, there should be an option to "Unlock drive." Click it and then choose the option to "Enter recovery key."
- Type and Confirm:
- Enter the 48-digit recovery key and click "Next" or "Confirm" to unlock the drive.
I hope the information above is helpful.
If you have any question or concern, please feel free to let us know.
Best Regards,
Haijian Shan