diff --git a/windows/device-security/bitlocker/bitlocker-frequently-asked-questions.md b/windows/device-security/bitlocker/bitlocker-frequently-asked-questions.md index 68cc89fe05..af3bab22cc 100644 --- a/windows/device-security/bitlocker/bitlocker-frequently-asked-questions.md +++ b/windows/device-security/bitlocker/bitlocker-frequently-asked-questions.md @@ -6,7 +6,7 @@ ms.prod: w10 ms.mktglfcycl: deploy ms.sitesec: library ms.pagetype: security -ms.localizationpriority: high +localizationpriority: high author: brianlic-msft --- @@ -189,6 +189,12 @@ You can use the Manage-bde.exe command-line tool to replace your TPM-only authen `manage-bde –protectors –add %systemdrive% -tpmandpin <4-20 digit numeric PIN>` + +### When should an additional method of authentication be considered? + +New hardware that meets [Windows Hardware Compatibility Program](https://docs.microsoft.com/windows-hardware/design/compatibility/) requirements make a PIN less critical as a mitigation, and having a TPM-only protector is likely sufficient when combined with policies like device lockout. For example, Surface Pro and Surface Book do not have external DMA ports to attack. +For older hardware, where a PIN may be needed, it’s recommended to enable [enhanced PINs](bitlocker-group-policy-settings.md#bkmk-unlockpol2) that allow non-numeric characters such as letters and punctuation marks, and to set the PIN length based on your risk tolerance and the hardware anti-hammering capabilities available to the TPMs in your computers. + ### If I lose my recovery information, will the BitLocker-protected data be unrecoverable? BitLocker is designed to make the encrypted drive unrecoverable without the required authentication. When in recovery mode, the user needs the recovery password or recovery key to unlock the encrypted drive. @@ -395,6 +401,11 @@ Yes. However, shadow copies made prior to enabling BitLocker will be automatical BitLocker is not supported on bootable VHDs, but BitLocker is supported on data volume VHDs, such as those used by clusters, if you are running Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows Server 2012, or Windows Server 2012 R2. +### Can I use BitLocker with virtual machines (VMs)? + +Yes. Password protectors and virtual TPMs can be used with BitLocker to protect virtual machines. VMs can be domain joined, Azure AD-joined, or workplace-joined (in **Settings** under **Accounts** > **Access work or school** > **Connect to work or school** to receive policy. You can enable encryption either while creating the VM or by using other existing management tools such as the BitLocker CSP, or even by using a startup script or logon script delivered by Group Policy. Windows Server 2016 also supports [Shielded VMs and guarded fabric](https://docs.microsoft.com/windows-server/virtualization/guarded-fabric-shielded-vm/guarded-fabric-and-shielded-vms-top-node) to protect VMs from malicious administrators. + + ## More information - [Prepare your organization for BitLocker: Planning and Policies](prepare-your-organization-for-bitlocker-planning-and-policies.md)