How Can I Encrypt Windows 11 Home Since BitLocker Is Not Available?

Consider investing in a Self Encrypting SSD (SED). Brands like Samsung offer drives that encrypt data automatically. If someone removes the drive, it stays locked until you enter the password at startup. It's a seamless way to protect your data without needing additional software.

I've seen discussions where people say that Windows 11 Home does have some form of Device Encryption, but it's more limited compared to BitLocker. It’s primarily for your boot drive. Just be aware that if the feature isn't enabled by your manufacturer, you might not have access to it.

If you want a free option, Veracrypt is a solid choice. It's a bit more manual compared to BitLocker, but it will allow you to encrypt your entire operating system. Just make sure you follow the instructions carefully to avoid any boot issues.

You can actually use the Device Encryption feature in Windows Settings. When you enable it, it activates something similar to BitLocker for your system drive. However, it does encrypt all non-removable drives by default, so you won't have the option to select which drives to encrypt.

Honestly, just upgrading to Windows 11 Pro might save you a lot of hassle. BitLocker is included there, and you won't have to deal with workarounds. You can often find keys for pretty cheap online.