A BitLocker recovery key is needed when BitLocker can’t automatically unlock an encrypted drive in Windows. This key, which is a 48-digit number, is used to regain access to the drive. You might be prompted for the BitLocker recovery key during startup, due to a security risk or hardware change:

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.

You can start a scan for malware any time you like. Note: Microsoft Defender currently offers anti-malware on Windows, Android, and macOS. From the Microsoft Defender dashboard. If you want a deeper scan, instead of selecting Quick scan in step 3, select Scan options and choose the type of scan you want.

From the Overview page, select Office apps and on that page, find the Microsoft 365 product you want to install and select Install. To install Microsoft 365 in a different language, or to install the 64-bit version, use the dropdown to find more options.

PC Health Check app brings you up to date info on your Windows device health, helping you take action to improve your device performance and troubleshoot performance problems. It is periodically updated based on customer feedback to help you make the most of your Windows PC. How to open PC Health Check. In Windows, use Search on the taskbar to ...

Learn how to add user accounts in Windows 10 and Windows 11. With an account, each person has separate files, browser favorites, and a private desktop.

Change or reset your Windows password. Accessing the account of someone who has died. Learn how to reset or change your Microsoft account password. Get help with a forgotten Microsoft account password.

Change from a 32-bit version to a 64-bit version or vice versa. Activate Windows. Fix Bluetooth problems in Windows. Learn how to install, reinstall, or activate Microsoft 365 or Office 2019 on a PC or Mac.

Scan a document or picture. Windows 11 Windows 10. You'll need 2 things installed on your PC: A scanner you've connected using a wired, wireless, or network connection. An app for scanning files, such as Windows Scan, available for free from Microsoft Store.

Post questions, follow discussions and share your knowledge in the Outlook.com Community. Hotmail is now Outlook.com. Learn how to sign in to access your Outlook.com, Hotmail, Live, or MSN email account.