aka.ms/recoverykey explained
If Windows asks for a BitLocker recovery key, aka.ms/recoverykey opens the Microsoft account page where that key may be saved.
- On another device, open aka.ms/recoverykey and sign in with the Microsoft account used on the locked PC.
- Find the device in the list of recovery keys.
- Match the key ID. Windows shows a recovery key ID on the blue BitLocker screen; find the entry with the same ID.
- Type the 48-digit key from that entry into the BitLocker screen to unlock the PC.
Sign in only on the Microsoft page the link opens (microsoft.com). If no key appears, the drive may have been encrypted under a work/school account or a different personal account — try that one.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Windows asking for a BitLocker recovery key?
BitLocker protects your drive and sometimes asks for the key after hardware or firmware changes. The key proves the drive is yours.
I do not see a key at aka.ms/recoverykey.
The key may be stored under a different Microsoft account, a work or school account, or saved to a file or USB when BitLocker was set up. Check those sources.