Recovering or Updating a Bitlocker PIN

Full disk encryption provides a critical layer of security to the files saved on your computer in the event of loss, theft, or other unauthorized access. It is a process that converts data into an unreadable form that can be accessed and understood only when you enter a separate PIN/password. We configure software on your computer that will encrypt and protect the hard drive and data. On Windows computers, we use Microsoft’s BitLocker.

 Instructions

Recovering a PIN

1. Using another machine, open a web browser.

   • If you have an older machine, for Hamilton laptops if the barcode is lower than 23000, use and connect to the Innovation BitLocker Recovery Portal. 

   • If you have a newer device, or your Hamilton-owned computer has a barcode of 23000 or greater, use the Bitlocker Drive Recovery.

2. Log in using Hamilton credentials.

3. Press Escape on the keyboard of your computer that is stuck on the BitLocker screen to open the recovery pin screen. 

4. Under the Drive Recovery tab on the other machine you are using to recover the BitLocker, input the first 8 characters of the recovery Key ID listed on your machine, and change the "Reason for Drive Unlock" to Lost Pin. Click Submit, and you will be provided with a 32-character key.

5. Enter the recovery code on your computer, and you will be able to sign into the device as usual.

Updating a PIN

1. Open the Control Panel.

2. Navigate to the BitLocker Encryption Options (you can search for BitLocker).

3. Under BitLocker Drive Encryption, click Change PIN.

4. Input a new pin conforming to the requirements at the top of the page, and click the Reset Pin button.

    Be sure to click the set pin button. Hitting the return key will not set the PIN correctly!

 More information

If you need additional assistance with recovering or updating your BitLocker pin, please do not hesitate to create a ticket with the Help Desk by emailing us at helpdesk@hamilton.edu or calling at 315-859-4181.