If you thought the blue screen problems were over for Microsoft Windows users after the CrowdStrike update bug, think again. Microsoft has just confirmed a new blue screen issue that appeared after the July Patch Tuesday security update. This new issue is causing some users to boot into a BitLocker encryption recovery screen. Here’s what you need to know.
The New Blue Screen: Not Quite the Blue Screen of Death
Unlike the dreaded blue screen of death that millions of users experienced after last week’s CrowdStrike update disaster, this new blue screen isn’t quite as severe. Instead of showing a cryptic stop error number, the new blue screen, seen by users of Windows 10, 11, and Server who recently applied the July Patch Tuesday security update, asks for a recovery key to be entered. Specifically, it requests a BitLocker encryption recovery key.
Microsoft has issued a warning that Windows devices “might boot into BitLocker recovery with the July 2024 security update.” This issue seems to affect users whose devices have the BitLocker encryption option enabled.
What Is BitLocker?
BitLocker is a built-in encryption feature in Windows that helps protect data by providing encryption for entire volumes. When BitLocker is enabled, it adds an extra layer of security by encrypting the entire drive. This means if someone tries to access your data without your permission, they would need the recovery key to unlock it.
What Happened with the July Update?
With the current status of the issue being “investigating,” Microsoft has explained that some users might encounter a BitLocker recovery screen after rebooting their devices during the security update. This recovery screen is something that “does not commonly appear after a Windows update.”
How to Get Past the BitLocker Recovery Screen
Microsoft has said it will provide more information as it becomes available. However, in the meantime, there is a workaround that is easy to follow. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Enter Your BitLocker Recovery Key: When you see the BitLocker recovery screen, you will need to enter your BitLocker recovery key.
2. Retrieve the Recovery Key: If you don’t know your recovery key, you can retrieve it by logging into the BitLocker recovery screen portal with your Microsoft account. Microsoft has provided detailed steps on how to find your BitLocker recovery key.
Steps to Retrieve BitLocker Recovery Key
- Log into Your Microsoft Account: Go to the BitLocker recovery key retrieval portal and log in with your Microsoft account.
- Find Your Recovery Key: Follow the instructions provided on the portal to find your recovery key. This key is usually a 48-digit number.
- Enter the Key: Once you have retrieved the recovery key, enter it on the BitLocker recovery screen on your device.
After entering the recovery key, your Windows device should boot up as normal.
Who Is Affected?
The Windows platforms potentially impacted by the BitLocker blue screen problem include:
– Windows 11 version 23H2
– Windows 11 version 22H2
– Windows 11 version 21H2
– Windows 10 version 22H2
– Windows 10 version 21H2
– Windows Server 2022
– Windows Server 2019
– Windows Server 2016
– Windows Server 2012 R2
– Windows Server 2012
– Windows Server 2008 R2
– Windows Server 2008
What Should You Do?
If you are using one of the affected versions, it’s a good idea to check if BitLocker is enabled on your device and ensure you have access to your BitLocker recovery key. This will save you time and hassle if you encounter the BitLocker recovery screen after applying the July Patch Tuesday security update.
Conclusion
Microsoft is aware of the new blue screen issue and is currently investigating the problem. While they work on a permanent solution, they have provided a straightforward workaround. By entering your BitLocker recovery key, you can get past the blue screen and boot your device normally. It’s important to stay informed about these updates and follow any instructions from Microsoft to keep your device running smoothly.
If you need to retrieve your BitLocker recovery key, make sure to log into the BitLocker recovery screen portal with your Microsoft account. Keep your recovery key handy in case you need it.
Stay tuned for more updates from Microsoft on this issue and any further steps you might need to take. For now, be prepared and make sure you know how to retrieve your BitLocker recovery key if needed.
