How do I get into my laptop if I forgot the password or BitLocker key?
A forgotten Windows password can usually be dealt with. A BitLocker recovery key is different: without the key, the files on the drive can't be opened by anyone, us included.
It usually needs a technician, but it's rarely an emergency. The checks below are safe to try first.
Does this sound like yours?
- It asks for a password or BitLocker key I don't have
What usually causes it
- Forgotten Windows or Microsoft account password
- BitLocker switched on, asking for the key after a change or update
Most likely first. A hands-on test confirms which one it is.
What you can safely check
- For a Microsoft account, reset the password at account.live.com on your phone
- For BitLocker, check aka.ms/myrecoverykey while signed in to the Microsoft account used on the laptop
- If it's a work laptop, ask your company's IT person for the key
Please don't
- Don't pay anyone online who promises to “bypass” BitLocker. It can't be done that way
- Bring proof that the laptop is yours (receipt or your account details)
Not sure it's this? Check yours in a minute
Bring it in with proof of ownership and we'll tell you honestly what can be recovered. Our free repair checker asks a few quick questions about your laptop or desktop and tells you the most likely cause.
No diagnosis fee. Clear quote before any work. Visit us: Yaba, Lagos · Owerri · +234 902 730 1128
Questions people ask
How do I get into my laptop if I forgot the password or BitLocker key?
A forgotten Windows password can usually be dealt with. A BitLocker recovery key is different: without the key, the files on the drive can't be opened by anyone, us included. The most common causes are: forgotten Windows or Microsoft account password; bitLocker switched on, asking for the key after a change or update.
What can I safely check myself?
For a Microsoft account, reset the password at account.live.com on your phone. For BitLocker, check aka.ms/myrecoverykey while signed in to the Microsoft account used on the laptop. If it's a work laptop, ask your company's IT person for the key.
What should I avoid doing?
Don't pay anyone online who promises to “bypass” BitLocker. It can't be done that way. Bring proof that the laptop is yours (receipt or your account details).
Where can I get it fixed in Lagos or Owerri?
ENB Technologies repairs laptops and desktops at our offices in Yaba, Lagos and in Owerri, Imo State. There's no diagnosis fee, you get a clear quote before any work, and most common repairs are done the same day. Call or WhatsApp +234 902 730 1128.
Written by the ENB Technologies repair team from the faults we see on the bench every week.
ENB TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED (RC 7714368) repairs laptops and desktops in Yaba, Lagos and Owerri. This page is general information, not a diagnosis of your device. Please don't open your device or try hardware repairs yourself.
