BitLocker is a full volume encryption feature included with Microsoft Windows versions starting with Windows Vista. It is designed to protect data by providing encryption for entire volumes. BitLocker originated as a part of Microsofts Next-Generation Secure Computing Base architecture in 2004 as a feature tentatively codenamed "Cornerstone" and was designed to protect information on devices, particularly if a device was lost or stolen. BitLocker is a logical volume encryption system, and when enabled, it can ensure the integrity of the trusted boot path (e.g. BIOS and ...).

BitLocker is generally used in business settings, but it is also available to people who want to bolster the security of their personal computers. BitLocker provides maximum protection when used with a Trusted Platform Module (TPM), which is a hardware component installed in many devices and works with BitLocker to help protect user data and to ensure that a computer hasnt been tampered with while the system is offline. BitLocker uses a specialized chip called a Trusted Platform Module (TPM), which stores Rivest-Shamir-Adleman encryption keys specific to the host system for hardware authentication.

If a system is asking for a BitLocker recovery key, it is a unique 48-digit numerical password that can be used to unlock the system if BitLocker is otherwise unable to confirm for certain that the attempt to access the system drive is authorized. Windows will require a BitLocker recovery key when it detects a possible unauthorized attempt to access the data. BitLocker Drive Encryption, or BitLocker, is a Microsoft Windows security and encryption feature that is included with certain newer versions of Windows.

In summary, BitLocker is a Windows disk encryption feature designed to protect data by providing encryption for entire volumes. It is generally used in business settings, but it is also available to individuals who want to bolster the security of their personal computers. BitLocker provides maximum protection when used with a Trusted Platform Module (TPM), and if a system is asking for a BitLocker recovery key, it is a unique 48-digit numerical password that can be used to unlock the system if BitLocker is otherwise unable to confirm for certain that the attempt to access the system drive is authorized.