Storage · high

How to fixBITLOCKER-RECOVERY-LOOP

BitLocker recovery screen loop

What this error means

BitLocker recovery screen loop is a high-severity storage drive (SSD/HDD) issue. The system is stuck in a BitLocker recovery screen loop, repeatedly asking for a 48-digit recovery key. This occurs when the TPM chip detects that the boot configuration has changed (BIOS update, new hardware, Secure Boot toggle), invalidating the stored encryption keys. Entering the recovery key once should resolve it, but the loop indicates the underlying trigger persists. See the troubleshooting steps below for the fix.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Note any recent driver or hardware changes. If Windows cannot start, use the startup guide first.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Enter 48-digit BitLocker recovery key from Microsoft account

Enter 48-digit BitLocker recovery key from Microsoft account.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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02Suspend BitLocker before future BIOS updates

Suspend BitLocker before future BIOS updates.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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03Re-enable Secure Boot if recently disabled

Re-enable Secure Boot if recently disabled.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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Possible causes

  • BIOS or firmware update changed PCR values
  • New hardware detected (new GPU, RAM)
  • Secure Boot policy change