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Bitlocker Full Drive Encryption

BitLocker is a full hard disk encryption solution that is built into Windows Vista Enterprise and Ultimate editions. It requires you to unlock your encrypted hard disk before booting into Windows. There are several different scenarios in which you could be running BitLocker:

Scenario 1: With a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) Chip

A Trusted Platform Module Chip (TPM) is the prefered method for running BitLocker. Click the link above for instructions on how to configure BitLocker if you are using it in conjunction with a TPM chip.

Scenario 2: With a USB Key

If you're computer does not have a Trusted Platform Module chip inside, you may substitute a USB key on which to store your encryption key. Click on the link above for instructions on how to configure BitLocker to work with your USB key.

Scenario 3: In a Dual Boot Environment or Encrypting Data Volumes

If you dual boot on your computer into more than one operating system or want to encrypt data volumes, there are some special considerations for BitLocker. Click on the link above to find step by step instructions for configuring BitLocker in a dual boot environment and how to encrypt data volumes.

Back to Help Desk Encryption Support Center

Last Updated: 04/24/2008