Windows 11 Bitlocker

Question

I have a new HP Envy with Windows 11 Pro installed. I have successfully used Bitlocker to encrypt two external hard drives. However, when I try to encrypt the internal hard drive, I get an error message " Internal Error". TMP is set correctly, so I am at a loss as to how to fix the problem. Any Ideas? Not sure why it would let me encrypt the external HDs, but not the Internal unless there was an internal Hard drive problem, but it does not indicate that is the issue. Data says that the internal hard drive is fine.

John

Answer 1

If it's your computer, you should log in as Administrator, there's no reason not to.

Check if your account is Administrator by going into Settings > Accounts > Your Info to see if it says Administrator.

There has to be at least one Administrator, so if it's not you sign into the Admin account by restarting PC and choosing it, then use it to change your account to Admin as shown here:

https://www.digitalcitizen.life/change-type-use...

Then continue with the steps I provided, ask back any questions.

Answer 2

Greg

I have never had to log in as administrator. When you have a chance, let me know the process. This is a personal computer, so I guess I am the administrator.

Thanks.

John

Answer 3

Thanks, John, and the same to you!

Keep me posted on your progress as I will be here to help until the case is resolved.

Greg

Answer 4

Greg

Thanks for getting back. I will try the things you suggested.

Hopy you and your family have a wonderful holiday season.

john

Answer 5

Hi John. I'm Greg, 10 years awarded Windows MVP, specializing in Installation, Performance, Troubleshooting and Activation, here to help you.

Run a full Windows 11 Disk Check: https://allthings.how/how-to-run-chkdsk-in-wind...

Run System File Checker/DISM in WIndows 11:

https://www.elevenforum.com/t/use-system-file-c...

If that doesn't fix it then you can do a Windows 11 Repair Upgrade which reinstalls Windows while saving your files and apps in place, brings it up to the latest version by the most stable method, takes about an hour and resolves most problems: https://www.elevenforum.com/t/repair-install-wi...

Here is the full guide to Bitlocker in Windows 11:

https://www.windows11tips.com/how-to-enable-or-...

Because Bitlocker can fail with file loss, I would also have a Cloud backup to capture real time file changes, and so your files are safe from ransomware, fire and theft and easily accessible via the internet just like email. Some suggestions to help ease into this habit: You can drag or copy 5gb for free into OneDrive app to store in the cloud where they are safe from fire and theft. You can also choose to sync the Desktop, Pictures and Documents folders (only) in OneDrive app Settings > Backup for real time backup. More here: https://www.tenforums.com/tutorials/116029-turn...

If you install Google Drive Desktop, you can choose ANY User folders (Documents, Pictures, etc.) to sync up to 15g for free to their cloud in real time. You can also drag/copy selected files into Drive folder. More here:

https://support.google.com/drive/answer/1083812...

Be sure to also save a System Image backup stored externally so if Windows ever becomes irreparable you can restore C in 20 minutes and be up and running. Here's the best free imaging app and how to use it: https://www.howtogeek.com/howto/7363/macrium-re...

I hope this helps. Feel free to ask back any questions and keep me posted. I will keep working with you until it's resolved.

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