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Try restarting your PC first to see if the issue is already resolved. Note If BitLocker is enabled on your device, you'll need your BitLocker recovery key to access most recovery options from WinRE. If your PC still won't start, try these options from the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE):

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:

Open Recovery settings Under Recovery options, select Reset PC. Choose from the options and/or settings in the reset options table. Follow the on‑screen instructions to complete the reset. Reset your PC from Windows RE Note If you’ve encrypted your device, you’ll need your BitLocker key to complete this task.

Device Encryption is a Windows feature that enables BitLocker encryption automatically for the Operating System drive and fixed drives. It’s particularly beneficial for everyday users who want to ensure their personal information is safe without having to manage complex security settings.

Open BitLocker Drive Encryption Next to each drive there's a list of allowed operations. To enable encryption, select the option Turn on BitLocker Select an unlock option and back up the recovery key The drive will begin the encryption process. This can take some time to complete, but you can continue to use your device while it progresses

In this scenario, the BitLocker recovery key only needs to be entered once -- subsequent restarts will not trigger a BitLocker recovery screen, as long as the group policy configuration remains unchanged.

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

If you need to, dismiss the lock screen. Hold the Shift key down while you select Power > Restart in the lower-right corner of the screen. After your Surface restarts to the Choose an option screen, select Troubleshoot > Reset this PC. Windows won't start or isn't responding: Use a recovery drive to reinstall Windows

Open Recovery settings Under Recovery options, select Reset PC. Choose from the options and/or settings in the reset options table. Follow the on‑screen instructions to complete the reset. Reset your PC from Windows RE Note If you’ve encrypted your device, you’ll need your BitLocker key to complete this task.