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:

Learn how to redeem a gift card, code, or Office product key and spend your balance at Microsoft Store online, on Windows, or Xbox.

This breach allegedly exposed up to 2.9 billion records with highly sensitive personal data of up to 170M people in the US, UK, and Canada (Bloomberg Law). This article provides detailed information about the breach, the data exposed, and recommended actions to help you stay safe.

To use Microsoft 365 on your new device, you can activate Microsoft 365 as a 1-month trial of Microsoft 365 Family. You can also buy Microsoft 365 or a non-subscription version of Office, add Microsoft 365 to an existing Microsoft 365 subscription, or enter a product key from a new product key card.

Installation media, such as a USB flash drive, can be used to install a new copy of Windows, perform a clean installation of Windows, or reinstall Windows. To create installation media, go to the software download website, where step-by-step instructions can be found.

Office 2019 or 2016 for PC Office 2016 for Mac Office 2013 for PC. Install Microsoft 365 2019 or 2016 on a PC. Remember a one-time purchase version of Microsoft 365 is licensed for one install only. Depending on your browser, select Open file (in Edge or Internet Explorer), Setup (in Chrome), or Save File (in Firefox).

How to start a scan for viruses or malware in Microsoft Defender. Applies To. Important: The National Public Data breach exposed personal information, including names, addresses, and social security numbers. Learn how to protect yourself and how Microsoft Defender is helping to prevent fraud.

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.

If some Windows functions aren't working or Windows crashes, use the System File Checker to scan Windows and restore your files. Though the steps below might look complicated at first glance, just follow them in order, step-by-step, and we’ll try to get you back on track.

An app for scanning files, such as Windows Scan, available for free from Microsoft Store. The Windows Scan app can help you scan pictures or documents and save them to your PC as JPEG, bitmap, or PNG files. For more info, see Install and use a scanner in Windows. Get Windows Scan.