How do I decrypt my BitLocker-encrypted drive?
Device encryption is enabled by default on many Windows 11 laptops. Although this is good for security, this means that our method of reinstalling Windows would not work. This guide will walk you through the process of decrypting your Windows drive using BitLocker.
Decryption
BitLocker data loss
BitLocker is a powerful encryption tool, and using it improperly may result in data loss. It is safe to follow these instructions, but failure to follow steps may result in loss of data.
- Search for cmd in the Start menu, right-click on it, and select Run as administrator.
- Type
manage-bde -off %SystemDrive%and press Enter. This command starts the decryption process.- If you see the error message "This volume stores external key(s) that can automatically unlock other volumes", type
manage-bde -autounlock - ClearAllKeys %SystemDrive%and press Enter to clear the keys. After completion, re-typemanage-bde -off %SystemDrive%and press Enter to continue decrypting.
- If you see the error message "This volume stores external key(s) that can automatically unlock other volumes", type
- If you see the message Decryption is now in progress, you have completed the steps correctly. The decryption process will take some time.
- To check the progress, type
manage-bde -statusand look at the "Percentage Encrypted". Once it has reached 0%, you've successfully decrypted the drive!
