Bitlocker

What is Bitlocker

From Wikipedia:

BitLocker is a full volume encryption feature included with Microsoft Windows versions starting with Windows Vista. It is designed to protect data by providing encryption for entire volumes.

Supported OS

Windows only

Laptops

All UA owned laptops that are connected to UA's domain, ua-net.ua.edu, are now required to be BitLocked. If you receive a popup prompting you to Create a PIN for BitLocker, please note that the popup is not Spam and deployed via OIT's Network Security Team. Please create a PIN for BitLocker, which you will need to remember to unlock your laptop.

IMPORTANT: Once Bitlocker starts encrypting do not let the laptop go to sleep or turn off. Please make sure the charger is plugged in. This process can take 30+ minutes.

Note: Please do not activate manually. Please wait for it to apply it itself or follow the instructions once you receive the "grace period" popup. Locking it manually will prevent us from retrieving your Bitlockery recovery key.

Desktops

Bitlocker is no longer required on desktops so we recommend disabling it to prevent any issues.

For Desktops, you can disable BitLocker by following the instructions below:

• Click on the Windows Start Menu

• Type: Manage Bitlocker

• Click on Manage Bitlocker

• Click on Turn off BitLocker

• Click on Turn off BitLocker

Allow BitLocker to decrypt before shutting down or restarting your desktop

Facts

• Bitlocker applied by UA will only lock the C: drive in your laptop.
• You will be required to put in the PIN every time you turn on the laptop.
• The PIN can not be any repeating or sequential numbers/letters.
• The PIN must be 8-20 characters
• If you receive a Bitlockery recovery screen, then email the first 8 characters of the recovery key on the screen to support@eng.ua.edu.