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.

Learn more about product keys, Workplace Discount Program, and volume licenses. Some Office 2019, Office 2016, and Office 2013 products come with a product key. If yours did, before installing Microsoft 365 for the first time, sign in with an existing or new Microsoft account and enter your product key at office.com/setup.

Having trouble connecting to your email from Outlook on your desktop? Follow these steps to let Outlook diagnose and fix errors in your Outlook mail profile that might be causing the issue.

Windows 10 Windows 11. BitLocker Drive Encryption allows you to manually encrypt a specific drive or drives on a device running Windows Pro, Enterprise, or Education edition.

To connect your controller with Xbox Wireless, you might need the Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows. If your PC has Xbox Wireless built in, you can connect the controller directly without an adapter. If you’re using the Xbox Wireless Adapter: Plug the Xbox Wireless Adapter into your PC.

You can start a scan for malware any time you like. Note: Microsoft Defender currently offers anti-malware on Windows, Android, and macOS. Windows Android Mac. From the Microsoft Defender dashboard. Select Device details.

If you get an email about unusual activity on your Microsoft account, or if you’re worried that someone else might have used your account, go to the Recent activity page. You’ll see when your Microsoft account was signed in during the last 30 days, along with any device or app-specific info.

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.

Automatically update Windows 10, Windows 11, and Surface drivers and firmware (Recommended) Manually update Surface drivers and firmware (Advanced) You'll find the links for drivers after choosing your Surface model in the dropdown list in this section.