BitLocker is an integral part of Windows 11's security, and it works best when it's configured and managed properly. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
To fix the “Cannot install Windows, BitLocker Drive Encryption is enabled on selected partition” error, suspend BitLocker via Settings or Control Panel, or use your recovery key to unlock the drive.
Most people who use the Home Edition of Windows 10 and 11 are unlikely to be aware that their computer also comes with a Microsoft encryption tool. On many computers, it’s even activated by default.
October 2025 updates (KB5066835/KB5066791) can force some PCs into BitLocker recovery. Issue hits Intel Modern Standby PCs more; a 48-digit BitLocker recovery key may be required to unlock the drive.