How Do I Open Encrypted Files in BitLocker?

You can open encrypted files in BitLocker by using the BitLocker recovery key.

Here are the steps:

1. Locate your BitLocker recovery key:
   • You can find it on a USB drive, a printed paper, or in your Microsoft Account.
   • If you have lost it, you can try using the BitLocker recovery key tool to retrieve it.
2. Unlock the encrypted drive:
   • Right-click the encrypted drive in File Explorer.
   • Select Manage BitLocker.
   • Click Unlock and then Enter recovery key.
   • Enter the recovery key and click Unlock.

Once you have unlocked the drive, you can access the encrypted files as you normally would.

Note: If you don't have the recovery key, you won't be able to open the encrypted files.

Example:

Let's say you have a BitLocker-encrypted USB drive. You want to open a file on the drive but can't remember the password. You have a recovery key printed on a piece of paper. You can use the recovery key to unlock the drive and access the file.

Practical Insight:

It is important to keep your BitLocker recovery key in a safe and accessible place. If you lose it, you may not be able to recover your encrypted files.

Solution:

• Back up your BitLocker recovery key: Store it in a secure location, such as a cloud storage service or a password manager.
• Keep a record of your BitLocker recovery key: Write it down and keep it in a safe place.