Microsoft is enabling BitLocker system encryption by default on Home windows 11

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Microsoft is making BitLocker system encryption a default function in its subsequent main replace to Home windows 11. If you happen to clear set up the 24H2 model that’s rolling out within the coming months, system encryption shall be enabled by default while you first check in or arrange a tool with a Microsoft account or work / faculty account.

Gadget encryption is designed to enhance the safety of Home windows machines by mechanically enabling BitLocker encryption on the Home windows set up drive and backing up the restoration key to a Microsoft account or Entra ID.

In Home windows 11 model 24H2, Microsoft is decreasing the {hardware} necessities for automated system encryption, opening it as much as many extra gadgets — together with ones operating the Dwelling model of Home windows 11. Gadget encryption now not requires {Hardware} Safety Take a look at Interface (HSTI) or Trendy Standby, and encryption may even be enabled even when untrusted direct reminiscence entry (DMA) buses / interfaces are detected.

The newest Home windows 11 model 24H2 replace comes preinstalled on Microsoft’s vary of Copilot Plus PCs and is predicted to be out there on current machines in late September. Meaning if you happen to clear set up Home windows 11 later this yr or purchase a brand new PC with 24H2 put in, BitLocker system encryption shall be enabled by default. If you happen to simply improve to 24H2, Microsoft received’t allow system encryption mechanically.

The function might impression SSD efficiency on some gadgets. Tom’s {Hardware} examined this software program model of BitLocker final yr and located it might gradual drives by as much as 45 %. We’ve requested Microsoft repeatedly since early Might to touch upon BitLocker system encryption being enabled by default, however the firm has solely confirmed its plans by means of assist paperwork the place there isn’t any point out of any potential efficiency impacts.

You’ll want a Microsoft account to allow system encryption.
Screenshot by Tom Warren / The Verge

You may keep away from automated system encryption if you happen to’re utilizing an area account on a clear Home windows 11 model 24H2 set up. While you first arrange a brand new machine and log in with an area account, you’ll be prompted to check in with a Microsoft account to complete encrypting the system. BitLocker can nonetheless be manually enabled utilizing the BitLocker Management Panel on native accounts, although. You can even disable system encryption by means of a toggle within the privateness and safety part of Home windows 11’s settings interface.

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