Stuck on BitLocker recovery key entry screen
Windows stops boot and requests the 48-digit BitLocker recovery key because hardware integrity or TPM state changed.
Internal desktop parts run on harmless 12V DC voltage and cannot shock you. Simply unplug the wall power cable first, then touch the unpainted metal case frame to ground static electricity.
Common Symptoms & Tells
- Blue screen titled 'BitLocker' requesting 48-digit numerical key
- Key ID displayed with message: 'Enter the recovery key for this drive'
- Occurred following flash, Secure Boot toggle, or swap
Interactive Fix Checklist
0 of 4 steps completedRetrieve recovery key from Microsoft Account
From a phone or other device, sign in to 'account.microsoft.com/devices/recoverykey' using the Microsoft account associated with the PC.
Restore previous BIOS settings (Secure Boot / TPM)
If the key prompt appeared after entering , ensure Secure Boot is Enabled and fTPM / PTT is Enabled in UEFI settings.
Revert hardware changes temporarily
Shut down the PC and unplug the AC power cord first. If you changed your , slot, or CPU, put back the original part temporarily to boot into Windows and suspend BitLocker protection.
Suspend BitLocker before updating firmware in future
Once in Windows, run 'Suspend-BitLocker -MountPoint C: -RebootCount 1' before running firmware updates.
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