Cannot understand Bitlocker?

Question

I am running Windows 11 Pro 64 bit. I installed Axcrypt but found it too expensive and hard to use so I installed Bitlocker, I encrypted A 4TB USB external drive which appeared to go satisfactorily if a lengthy process, when I connect the drive to the PC it tells m me the drive is encrypted and to enter the PIN to use it which I do and then all the drive's contents are available but what I don't understand is, when I double click the Bitlocker icon a box opens telling me that BOOT Disc SSD (C:) Bitlocker is on but I haven't encrypted that drive so why does it say BitLocker is on? and how do I encrypt that drive? The box also tells me Removable data drives Bitlocker to go and other external data drives, apart from 4TB Bitlocker is Off. Lastly is there a comprehensive User Manual available?

Answer 1

Hi lys,

I'm Sumit, here to answer your query at the Microsoft Community.

It seems like on drive C Device encryption is on. It uses the same underlying tech as Bitlocker.

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/dev...

BitLocker encryption is available on supported Windows 10 or 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education devices.

On supported devices running Windows 10 or newer BitLocker will automatically be turned on the first time you sign into a personal Microsoft account (such as @outlook.com or @hotmail.com) or your work or school account.

BitLocker is not automatically turned on with local accounts, however you can manually turn it on in the Manage BitLocker tool.

Also check:

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/secur...

Hope this helps.

Answer 2

Hello,

That triggers only when hardware is changed, like motherboard.

It can also trigger with a change in BIOS Settings.

Its main aim is to protect data if your device is stolen.

Hope this helps.

Answer 3

'It seems like on drive C Device encryption is on. It uses the same underlying tech as Bitlocker. Are you saying that Bitlocker is on or Axcrypt is on, if Bitlocker is on Why do I not have to enter a PIN to access that drive?