Since the security update of October 2025 for Windows 10 and Windows 11, some PCs refuse to boot and get stuck on the BitLocker recovery screen. The only solution is to have your recovery key to unlock the PC, or you risk permanently losing all your data. If you haven’t installed the patch yet, you need to be extra cautious before proceeding.
This bug affects both Windows 11 and Windows 10, which remains popular despite the end of its support. BitLocker has provided full partition encryption since Windows Vista to enhance the operating system’s protection against hackers. The mechanism requires the entry of a recovery key in certain situations. However, many users are unaware if this protection is enabled on their PC or have misplaced their key over the years.
Bitlocker Blocks PCs After the October 2025 Update
Checking if BitLocker is enabled is very simple. Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Device Encryption. The page displays a button to enable or disable encryption. You can also find links to configure BitLocker and view your recovery key directly from Microsoft’s website.
If you are already stuck on the recovery screen of Windows 11 or Windows 10 because you have installed the update, don’t worry. You can recover your key by logging into the Microsoft site from another device with the administrator account of the locked machine. There is a page for recovery keys, but Microsoft also recommends keeping a paper copy of this key to avoid such situations.
According to initial reports, this bug primarily affects PCs equipped with Intel processors that have Modern Standby enabled. This feature allows devices to maintain their network connection even in low power mode. IT administrators also have the option to resolve the issue by directly contacting Microsoft support for businesses or using Known Issue Rollback.
Windows Has Already Been Affected by Bugs Due to Bitlocker
As a reminder, updates for both Windows 11 and Windows 10 have previously caused similar problems. This situation highlights the importance of always keeping your BitLocker recovery key handy. The recurrence of this issue raises questions about how Microsoft tests its operating system, as Windows 11 has been criticized for its numerous bugs.
Indeed, BitLocker has a solid reputation for robustness, but this protection is not infallible. An exploitation technique allows hackers to bypass PC encryption under specific conditions. It requires physical access and a network connection, which however limits the risks for users. Nonetheless, it remains a potential threat for businesses that handle sensitive information.
Source: Techspot
