How to enable BitLocker encryption on Windows

This guide explains how to enable BitLocker encryption on a Windows device. If you are using a staff Desktop@UCL computer, your device is already encrypted with BitLocker.

This guide is aimed at:

• All UCL staff and students using non-Desktop@UCL machines.

Instructions

To enable BitLocker encryption on Windows desktops and laptops, use one of the methods below.

1. Select Start Menu.

2. Type BitLocker into the search box.

3. Select BitLocker Drive Encryption.

4. Click on Turn on BitLocker.

OR

1. Open Windows’ Control Panel.

2. Type BitLocker into the search box in the upper-right corner, and press Enter.  

3. Next, click Manage BitLocker, and on the next screen click Turn on BitLocker.

Now BitLocker will check your PC’s configuration to make sure your device supports Microsoft’s encryption method.

Enable BitLocker encryption for Windows 10

For Windows 10 build 1511 or later, there are options to choose your encryption mode: new or compatible.

If you’re encrypting your on-board storage drive, then choose new. The compatible mode is mostly for removable drives that will be used with older versions of Windows that do not have the “new” encryption mode.

Click on the box next to Run BitLocker system check so that Windows will run a system check before encrypting your drive. Once the box is checked, click Continue… 

1. Select Start Menu.

2. Type BitLocker into the search box.

3. Select BitLocker Drive Encryption.

4. Click on Turn on BitLocker.

How do I check the BitLocker status it has been enabled?

You can check the BitLocker status of a machine using the BitLocker Drive Encryption application, which is in Control Panel.

The BitLocker Drive Encryption application displays the status of the drives attached to the system. E.g. C: is encrypted, E: is not encrypted, F: is in the process of encrypting.

Related guides & other info

• BitLocker encryption on staff Desktop@UCL computers
• Hard drive encryption on Mac and Linux