bitlocker

A corgi using a physical key labelled "password" to unlock a box labelled "real encryption key", all in front of a computer screen asking "Please enter real encryption key".

Your Password May Not Be Used to Encrypt Your Data, and That’s Okay

There’s a surprising and counterintuitive technique related to how some encryption tools work: your password is not what locks your data. I’ll describe what keeps your data secure and why changing your password doesn’t always mean re-encrypting all your data.

A Corgi looking at a computer screen. The perspective is over the Corgi's shoulder. The computer screen shows a BitLocker icon which has been cracked in half.

Has BitLocker Been Broken? What YellowKey Means to You

A security researcher just showed that bypassing BitLocker on Windows 11 takes little more than a USB stick and a reboot. I’ll discuss what we know, who needs to worry, what the risks are for most people, and what you can do about it right now.

a corgi working on a laptop at a busy airport waiting area

Tip of the Day: Shut Down When Traveling

Padlocked disk

Does Whole-disk Encryption Impact Computer Performance?

Does whole-disk encryption slow your computer? You might be surprised. The bigger risk is losing access to your data if you’re not careful with your encryption keys and backups.

Hard disk chained and locked.

How Do I Encrypt a Disk?

Worried about your data if your computer goes missing? Whole-disk encryption can keep prying eyes out. I’ll show you simple, practical ways to encrypt your entire drive so your information stays safe even if your computer doesn’t.

Bitlocker Logo

How to Save or Recover Your BitLocker Recovery Key

BitLocker could be running on your PC without your knowledge. Without the recovery key, you risk losing everything. I’ll show you three ways to check, find, and save your key.

Is it encrypted?

How Do I Know If My Hard Disk Is BitLocker-Encrypted?

Even running Windows Home edition, your hard drive might be BitLocker-encrypted without you realizing it. If you don’t have the recovery key, you could lose everything. Learn how to check, why it matters, and the simple steps to protect yourself before it’s too late.

two hard drives connected to a computer, one labeled "Source: BitLocker Encrypted" and the second labeled "Backup Drive." Overlayed text reads "Encrypted? Unencrypted? Understand the difference."

I Use BitLocker. Are My Backups Encrypted?

It’s important to understand when backups of encrypted drives are encrypted and when they’re not.

Bitlocker Protected External Drive

BitLocker vs. Cryptomator: Why I Use Both (and When You Should, Too)

Use different tools for different purposes.

Bitlocker Protected External Drive

Why I (No Longer) Avoid BitLocker

BitLocker is a fine encryption program if used properly. The problem is that it’s too easy for the average user to skip steps that could result in data loss.

Encryption, conceptual

What Encryption Software Do You Recommend?

There are many different tools for encryption. The right one depends on what you’re attempting to accomplish.

Windows Pro or Windows Home?

What’s the Difference Between Windows Home and Pro Editions?

I prefer Windows Professional editions. Here’s what I consider the important differences between Windows Home and Pro.

Bitlocker is ON.

How Do I Turn Off BitLocker on a Drive?

BitLocker is a fine approach to encrypting hard drives, especially the system drive. It’s easy to turn off BitLocker if you decide you no longer need it.

Locked Laptop

How Do I Protect My Laptop Data from Theft?

Laptops are portable, convenient, and easily lost. If lost, all your data could easily be available to the finder. Encryption is the answer.

Bitlocker

Tip of the Day: An Encrypted Drive is Not Encrypted in the Cloud