Exploring the Latest Windows 11 Update and Potential BitLocker Problem

BitLocker has been an integral part of Microsoft’s encryption arsenal for SSDs. While it has had its share of issues since its inception, a new potential problem is looming for Windows 11 users with the upcoming version 24H2 update. A recent report indicates that the update, dubbed as the 2024 update, may activate BitLocker during installation across various Windows versions, even on the Home edition.

This revelation has caused an uproar mainly due to its implications. The most notable concern is the impact of using BitLocker for encryption on PC performance. The encryption and decryption processes associated with BitLocker can decrease your PC’s performance by as much as 45% in Windows Pro, with the likelihood of similar effects on other versions of the operating system. This reduction in speed is a consequence of Windows 11 continuously prompting encryption and decryption processes with data on your SSD during read and write operations.

Unfamiliar Territory for Average Users

In addition to performance issues, this automatic encryption could pose a significant obstacle for average users unfamiliar with encryption concepts and practices. These users may accidentally encrypt their data without understanding the process or the ramifications. On realizing their mistake, they may be unable to decrypt or recover their data due to key mismanagement.

Cracking BitLocker Encryption

Regarding security, some experts have raised concerns about BitLocker encryption too. According to a video demonstration by popular YouTuber, Stacksmashing, BitLocker encryption can be cracked with relative ease. If you’re using a Windows 10 or Windows 11 Pro device with a dedicated external Trusted Platform Module (TPM), your encrypted data could potentially be decrypted and exposed. With some knowledge, physical access to the target endpoint, and a budget Raspberry Pi Pico, cracking the encryption is apparently possible.

Disabling Auto Encryption

The simplest method to remedy this situation is by disabling the Device Encryption option inside Privacy & security in the Settings. This option available to all users, albeit many casual Windows 11 users might not be aware of this.

If the underlying report’s indication holds, Microsoft might consider disabling this auto-encryption before rolling out the update. This feature, while beneficial in theory, seems to lead to more problems than solutions.

Conclusion

The potential problems with BitLocker’s automatic activation in the Window 11 version 24H2 update are concerning. It’s important for users to be aware of and understand these possible problems. Therefore, it is critically essential for Microsoft to offer clear and concise instructions on how to disable the auto-encryption and ensure casual users are not inadvertently caught up in the noise.