Microsoft Confirms May 2025 Update Triggers BitLocker Recovery on Some Windows 10 Devices
Microsoft has acknowledged a new issue affecting Windows 10 and Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2021 systems, where some devices boot into BitLocker recovery mode after installing the May 2025 Patch Tuesday update (KB5058379).
BitLocker, a Windows security feature that encrypts storage drives to protect against data theft, typically prompts for a recovery key after hardware changes or Trusted Platform Module (TPM) updates. However, the company has confirmed that “a small number” of users are seeing unexpected recovery screens following the latest update.
According to Microsoft’s Windows Release Health page, affected systems may fail to boot several times, triggering Automatic Repair. If BitLocker is enabled, users must enter their recovery key to proceed. Event Viewer logs on these devices show LSASS errors and installation failures with error code 0x800F0845. Some systems enter a BitLocker recovery loop, while others may roll back the update after multiple failed attempts.
Users can retrieve their BitLocker recovery key by logging into the BitLocker recovery portal with their Microsoft account. Microsoft also provides a support page with instructions on locating recovery keys.
While Microsoft continues to investigate the root cause, reports have emerged from users and IT admins experiencing issues across various hardware, including Lenovo, Dell, and HP devices. Some users report repeated startup failures, while others are locked out until a BitLocker key is entered.
Workarounds include disabling Intel Trusted Execution Technology (TXT), Secure Boot, or Virtualization Technologies via BIOS settings. Microsoft support also suggests these steps if users are unable to bypass the recovery prompt.
This isn’t the first time BitLocker recovery has been unintentionally triggered. Similar incidents occurred in August 2024 and August 2022, both tied to previous Windows security updates.
Microsoft says it will provide additional updates as the investigation continues.
