If your system is asking you for your BitLocker recovery key, the following information may help you locate your recovery key and understand why you're being asked to provide it. Important: Microsoft support is unable to provide, or recreate, a lost BitLocker recovery key.

It's a good idea to create a recovery drive. That way, if your PC ever experiences a major issue such as hardware failure, you'll be able to use the recovery drive to reinstall Windows 11. Windows updates to improve security and PC performance periodically, so we recommend you recreate the recovery drive annually.

In Windows 11, apps don't automatically get added to your desktop. Learn how to pin apps to your desktop or taskbar in Windows 11 or Windows 10.

If you're having problems with Windows 11 on your PC or you want a fresh copy of Windows 11 without the clutter of old files or apps, you can reinstall Windows 11 to try and fix your issues and return your PC to a cleaner state.

Copilot is designed to deliver AI-powered assistance in a convenient manner, enabling you to seamlessly engage with generative AI on Windows. You can resize, move, and use Snap Assist with Copilot, just like you can with other Windows apps. You can use Alt + Tab to switch focus between Copilot and other open apps.

You can use installation media (a USB flash drive or DVD) to install a new copy of Windows, perform a clean installation, or reinstall Windows. To create installation media, go to the software download website, where you'll find step-by-step instructions.

With a USB-C connection, you can charge your Windows 11 PC, and you can also connect to other USB Type-C devices such as mobile phones, docking stations, display adapters, and other devices that have a USB-C port. Unfortunately, some combinations of hardware and software may cause problems. If this happens, you may get a notification that there ...

Booting from a USB device doesn’t refresh or reset your Surface. Instead, it lets you start your Surface using Windows or another operating system that’s on your USB device. For info about how to create a bootable USB drive for your Surface, see Creating and using a USB recovery drive for Surface.

Find your Windows settings in a snap! Select the Start button, then select Settings . From there, browse the categories or use search to find what you're looking for. Most apps have their own settings. In the app, select Settings to make app-specific changes. Learn how to make Windows easier to see and easier to hear .

Get help and support, whether you're shopping now or need help with a past purchase. Contact Microsoft Support. Find solutions to common problems, or get help from a support agent.