Stuck in a loop with bitlocker and no devices.

Question

Today I have my bitlocker recovery key thing to do so I went onto my devices but for some reason my device isn't on there so I don't have any key to get to put into my computer and I don't know the serial number as I would need to unlock my pc. I genuinely don't know what to do in this situation and nothing on microsoft support and YouTube is helping me. I wouldn't mind factory restarting but I don't know how to. (If I have used the wrong tagged or if I have made the issue so more complicated than it is just take note I'm new to all of this)

Answer 1

If you're stuck in a BitLocker recovery loop and cannot access your recovery key, here are some steps you can consider:

1. Check for Recovery Key Storage: If your device is not showing up in your Microsoft account under the devices section, ensure that you have checked all possible locations where the recovery key might be stored. This includes USB drives, printed copies, or saved in Microsoft Entra ID or Active Directory if applicable.
2. Cloud Recovery for Surface Hub: If you are using a Surface Hub and do not have the recovery key, you can perform a cloud recovery. However, this will delete all contents on the internal drive and reset the device to factory settings. To do this, you would typically select options like "Press Esc for more recovery options" and then choose to recover from the cloud. Note that this requires an open internet connection.
3. Contact Support: If you cannot recover your key and are unable to perform a factory reset, consider reaching out to Microsoft support for assistance. They may be able to help you retrieve your recovery key or guide you through the recovery process.
4. Use Command Prompt: If you have access to the BitLocker recovery screen, you can try using the Command Prompt to unlock your drive with the recovery password if you have it. However, if you do not have the password, this option will not be available.
5. Factory Reset: If you want to proceed with a factory reset and are not using a Surface Hub, you may need to access recovery options through the Windows Recovery Environment. This typically involves booting your device and selecting recovery options, but the exact steps can vary based on the device model.

If you are unsure about any of these steps, contacting Microsoft support is highly recommended for personalized assistance.

Answer 2

1. Check every Microsoft account you might have used
2. Check your email inboxes
3. Check physical places

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If you find the recovery key

1. Enter the XXXX key
2. Windows unlocks
3. All files remain safe

If you do NOT find the recovery key

1. Factory reset is the only safe and legitimate option
2. Data is permanently erased
3. PC becomes usable again

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Contact Support: If you cannot recover your key and are unable to perform a factory reset, consider reaching out to Microsoft support for assistance. They may be able to help you retrieve your recovery key or guide you through the recovery process.

Answer 3

Hi, good day!

Please check the support article in the link below on How to find your BitLocker recovery key in Windows.

https://support.microsoft.com/windows/finding-your-bitlocker-recovery-key-in-windows-6b71ad27-0b89-ea08-f143-056f5ab347d6

I apologize, but there isn't another way to get around BitLocker if you can't find the right recovery key or keep running into the same problem. In this situation, a Clean Installation of Windows via USB flash drive would be required. Please be aware that the BitLocker encryption will be deactivated during this operation, and your data will be lost.

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You will need to find another working Windows computer from a family member or friend near you to create the Windows USB Installation media.

Find another working computer then download the Media Creation tool (Click Download tool now). Use the tool to "Create installation media (USB flash drive at least 8GB in size) to install Windows". Instructions inside the link.

Note: Please make sure to uncheck the "Use the recommended options for this PC" box. Please check the link below for more details.

https://support.microsoft.com/windows/create-installation-media-for-windows-99a58364-8c02-206f-aa6f-40c3b507420d

Insert the USB Installation media into your computer. Please change the boot order in the Bios Settings. Boot your PC from the Installation Media you created.

Kindly refer to the link below on How to Perform a Clean Install for more details.

https://support.microsoft.com/windows/reinstall-windows-with-the-installation-media-d8369486-3e33-7d9c-dccc-859e2b022fc7

I look forward to receiving your update and I'm willing to collaborate with you till we resolve the issue. Do keep me informed by clicking "Add comment" below.

Answer 4

On the WinRE, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt

Type

systemreset -factoryreset

and hit Enter

Select your preferred reset option (Keep files or Remove everything) and click Reset