bitlocker recovery doesnt work -how do I recovery key for specific drive

Wilbert Scott 0 Reputation points
2025-11-02T16:50:59.1933333+00:00

I can retrieve codes for all my family members but the recovery key will not unlock one specific computer drive. is there a way to reset or update keys or is this because it was never set up.

Windows for business | Windows Client for IT Pros | Devices and deployment | Recovery key
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  1. Joseph Tran 3,805 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-11-04T01:43:38.0533333+00:00

    Hi, There

    As I can see here, it sounds like you’ve tried everything and that one drive just won’t unlock. Let’s check a few quick things together:

    • Make sure it’s really encrypted and open Command Prompt (Admin) and type:
    manage-bde -status
    

    => If it says “Fully Encrypted,” then BitLocker is active. If not, that drive might not have been set up with BitLocker at all.

    • Match the Key ID with the code on your screen must match the one in your Microsoft recovery key page. If the ID is even a little different, that key won’t work.
    • Try it on the original computer if you can, plug that drive into the same PC it was encrypted on. Sometimes only that system’s TPM chip can unlock it.
    • If the key still doesn’t work then double-check there are no typos or missing digits. Sadly, if the right key just isn’t available anywhere, there’s no way to reset it, the BitLocker doesn’t have a master unlock.

    But if you could share what the manage-bde -status result says, I may find something helpful for you to see whether it’s actually locked or maybe just showing the prompt by mistake.


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