---
title: "Unlocking An Encrypted Computer"
canonical: "https://tech.calpoly.edu/space/CPKB/2117959682/Unlocking%20An%20Encrypted%20Computer"
format: markdown
---
> ℹ️ **NOTE:** Users will need to follow the steps to [complete Device Compliance](https://tech.calpoly.edu/space/CPKB/1738342981/Install+Software+on+a+Cal+Poly+Owned+or+Tech+Rentals+PC#device-compliance) on ther Cal Poly-owned PCs before retrieving a recovery key.
If your encrypted drive has locked you out, you will see a blue screen with a request to enter your Recovery Key to unlock it…
### To access your recovery key and unlock your encrypted drive:
1. Launch a web browser and **go to: ****[https://account.microsoft.com/](https://account.microsoft.com/)**
2. **Sign in** with your Cal Poly email address.
*You will be re-routed to a Cal Poly login prompt and required to Multi-Factor Authenticate*
3. From your **Microsoft account dashboard**, select **Devices/Manage Devices **from the menu on the left
4. From the list of devices, **select your device**.
> ✅ Devices are typically listed with your **Cal Poly Username** in the device name.
*The computer properties will now be displayed. *
5. Select **View Bitlocker Keys**
6. Select the **Show recovery key** button
7. **Save the key **to a text/notepad to be used for recovery on the device.
8. Enter the **Recovery Key **into the field shown on the blue screen and follow the prompts to complete the unlocking.
If you need further assistance **please contact the ****[Cal Poly Service Desk](https://calpoly.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/CPKB/pages/909246477)****[ ](https://calpoly.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/CPKB/pages/909246477)****or create a ****[Support Request Ticket](https://calpoly.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/2/group/8/create/30)** for assistance.
> ℹ️ **To Best Assist You Please…**
> ℹ️
> ℹ️ - Be prepared to verify your identity to the Service Desk, and
> ℹ️ - Have **your Recovery Key ready**.
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