How to Get a BitLocker Recovery Key from Your Microsoft Account

Summary: Learn how to locate and use your BitLocker recovery key to unlock a Windows device encrypted with BitLocker Drive Encryption.

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Instructions

What is a BitLocker recovery key?

BitLocker is a Windows security feature that encrypts your drive to protect your data. If Windows detects a change or potential threat, it may prompt you to enter a BitLocker recovery key to unlock your device.

When do you need a BitLocker recovery key?

You may be asked for your recovery key in these situations:

  • After a BIOS or firmware update
  • If you replace hardware (such as the motherboard or hard drive)
  • When Windows detects suspicious activity
  • If you forget your BitLocker password
  • After enabling BitLocker manually
  • If your device is managed by your school or workplace
  • When an external drive is connected during startup
  • If your device enters recovery mode unexpectedly

Where is the recovery key saved?

Your BitLocker recovery key may be stored in one of the following locations:

  • Your Microsoft account
  • A USB flash drive
  • A printed copy
  • A file saved on another device or network
  • Your Azure Active Directory account (for work or school devices)

This guide walks you through getting a recovery key in your Microsoft Account. If you have a key stored in one of the other locations, use the key from that location.

Note: Dell does not store or provide BitLocker recovery keys. If your device is managed by an organization, contact your IT support.

How to find your BitLocker recovery key in your Microsoft account

Follow these steps to locate your recovery key:

  1. Visit account.microsoft.com.
  2. Sign in with the Microsoft account linked to your device.
  3. Select Devices.
  4. Choose the device that needs the recovery key and select View details.
  5. Select Manage recovery keys.
  6. If prompted, sign in again to verify your identity.
  7. Find the first 8 digits of the Key ID displayed on your locked device screen.
    BitLocker Recovery screen
  8. Match the first 8 digits of the Key ID with the recovery key with the same ID listed in your Microsoft Account.
    Note: Depending on the drive configuration, a computer can show multiple drives if you choose to encrypt additional drives.
    • OSV = Operating System Volume
    • FDV = Fixed Disk Volume (secondary disk drive)
    • RDV = Removable Disk Volume (USB Key)
  9. Enter the recovery key on your device.
  10. Select Enter to unlock your device.

Visit the Microsoft Find your BitLocker recovery key page for more information and visual guidance.

If you cannot locate your BitLocker recovery key using your Microsoft Account(s), and do not have a key saved in another manner mentioned above, you will need to reinstall Windows. See our guide Repair and Restore your Computer Using SupportAssist OS Recovery for more information.

Additional Information

See these Dell Knowledge Base articles for related information:

Check these resources on Microsoft's support website.

Affected Products

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Article Properties
Article Number: 000204202
Article Type: How To
Last Modified: 17 Nov 2025
Version:  8
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