Encrypt Your Windows Computer With BitLocker

These resources are intended for non-technical users who manage their own computers. If your computer is managed by the university, do not proceed. Contact your IT administrator for further assistance.

What is Full Drive Encryption?

Encryption is a technology used to protect data from unauthorized disclosure. It is the process of encoding information in such a way that hackers or eavesdroppers cannot read it, but authorized parties can. BitLocker provides full drive encryption on Windows OS computers, so that all files are protected from unauthorized users in the event that your computer is lost or stolen. BitLocker can also be used to encrypt all files on fixed data drives, such as internal hard drives.

Full drive encryption with BitLocker is the recommended method for securing your information because:

  • You don't have to worry about getting documents into the encrypted folders
  • You don't have to worry about unencrypted sensitive data left over in temp files, page files, hibernation files, etc.

Installing BitLocker

Microsoft offers the following advice about installing BitLocker on your Windows PC: Turn on Device Encryption.