I’m using a laptop with TPM module with BitLocker-encrypted internal HDD, running Windows 7.Recently I’ve installed a Windows 8 on the external, eSATA drive.Windows 8 detected the Windows 7 and correctly replaced the bootloader with dual-boot option.
Unfortunately, I’m now forced to enter BitLocker Recovery Key each time I start the computer.The only workaround I’ve found was to disable TPM module in BIOS, and suspend BitLocker on the Windows 7 drive.
How to accomplish the following configuration:
- Keep the BitLocker running on Windows 7 (internal drive)
- Leave the Windows 8 (external, eSATA drive) completely unencrypted
- Don’t be bugged to enter Recovery Key each time during startup
- No matter if the eSATA drive is plugged in, or not
Is it possible?I don’t care if TPM is enabled and I just want the Windows 7 drive to be BitLocker-encrypted.
Solution:
You need to log into Windows 7, suspend Bitlocker (no need to disable your TPM), then reboot your computer into Windows 7 again (and reenable Bitlocker if it doesn’t automatically do it). This will “reset” Bitlocker to understand your new dual-boot configuration. Once you’ve done this, you should not need to enter your recovery key the next time you boot into Windows 7.