I've noticed that about 10% of our Dell devices show a BitLocker recovery screen following firmware updates, whether they come through Windows Update or Dell Command Update. This is primarily an annoyance since fixing it is straightforward, but all our devices are configured similarly, so I can't pinpoint why just certain ones are affected. Has anyone else encountered this? Is there a known issue with BitLocker and firmware updates?
5 Answers
Before applying firmware updates, it's essential to suspend BitLocker, not just disable it. I'm not sure how your Windows team handles this, but if you need a script to run beforehand, here's a PowerShell documentation link that might help you manage it better.
Yeah, but Dell Command Update is already set up to do that!
For our fleet, we occasionally face BitLocker prompts after updates, but they resolve themselves after a reboot. It's just part of dealing with these systems, unfortunately.
Make sure recovery keys are handled securely. Handing them out too casually defeats the purpose!
It sounds like you might need to look into why BitLocker isn't suspending as it should. Check out the logs to see if there's any clue. Some people just learn to live with it, though, since it happens occasionally. It's annoying, for sure!
True, and Windows can sometimes drive you crazy with these random issues!
How can you be sure it didn't suspend? That seems like an assumption.
We've experienced similar issues consistently. If you find out more about why it happens, let us know!
I found some interesting info about how firmware updates can trigger BitLocker protection. Check this link for details!
BIOS updates typically trigger this issue since they can tamper with TPM settings. I've noticed it happens quite often during updates across various devices.
Exactly! Any firmware update like chipset or BIOS usually leads to a BitLocker recovery prompt.

Good advice! Dell's own documentation suggests the same for their updates.