How to Update the BitLocker Password on a Windows Protected Drive

You can remove a BitLocker password by decrypting the drive and removing its protection. Once the protection is off, you can encrypt it again with a new password.

But did you know that you can change your BitLocker password without disabling protection? If you don’t want to go through the process of removing and re-adding drive security, here’s how to do it on the fly.

Why change your BitLocker password?

It’s a good idea to change important passwords at least semi-regularly. It’s one of the easiest ways to ensure the security of your accounts and other protected places.

How secure your BitLocker-protected drive is depends mainly on where your computer is located. Your home PC is probably fairly secure from unauthorized access. Computers located in more public areas, such as your workplace, may need to be more secure.

You need to unlock the BitLocker drive before you can change the password. You can set up an automatic unlock feature on your BitLocker drive for easier access. If you haven’t already done so, unlock it in the usual way using your password.

Change the BitLocker password in this PC

There are several ways to change the password on a BitLocker-protected drive. The first is through the This PC section of your Windows computer.

1. Open File Explorer and click This PC in the navigation panel on the left.
2. All your drives should appear in the Drives and Devices section. You may need to expand the section to see them.
3. Right-click on the drive for which you want to change the password. Select Change BitLocker Password from the context menu.
4. Enter your old and new passwords in the new panel that opens. Confirm your new password and click on the Change Password button.

Remember to update your password details in your password manager or anywhere else you keep a record of your passwords.

Update Your Password in the BitLocker Manager

You can also update your BitLocker password through the Drive Encryption management panel.

1. You can find the BitLocker Manager in Control Panel > System and Security > BitLocker Drive Encryption.
2. In the list of protected drives, find the drive for which you want to change the password. Click the arrow to expand the drive options.
3. Click Change Password and enter your old password in the relevant field.
4. Enter and confirm your new password, then click the Change Password button.

Using the Command Prompt to Change the BitLocker Password

If you don’t have access to either of the above two methods, you can change your BitLocker password in the Command Prompt. The Command Prompt is a powerful tool, and knowing how to use it is a useful skill for any Windows user.

1. In Windows Search, type cmd and select Run as administrator for Command Prompt.
2. In Command Prompt, type: manage-bde -changepassword H : Replace H with the drive letter of your drive.
3. You will then be asked to enter and confirm your new password in the Command Prompt. You do not need to enter your existing password, but you will need to unlock the drive to use this method.

Choose a strong password

It shouldn’t need to be said, but it’s often done. For BitLocker or elsewhere, you should always choose a strong password.

Microsoft offers some tips for creating a strong password. These include having at least 8 characters, not using your name, not using single words like giraffe, and making sure it’s different from passwords you use elsewhere.

If you want to learn more about how passwords can be hacked and how to create strong passwords you won’t forget, these guides will help.

Update or change your BitLocker passwords

Changing your passwords regularly is an easy way to keep your BitLocker encryption secure. You can easily change the password on an already protected drive, so there’s no reason not to adopt this security measure.