---
author: paolomatarazzo
ms.author: paoloma
ms.date: 09/24/2023
ms.topic: include
---

### Configure use of smart cards on fixed data drives

This policy setting allows you to specify whether smart cards can be used to authenticate user access to the BitLocker-protected fixed data drives on a computer. If you enable this policy setting smart cards can be used to authenticate user access to the drive. You can require a smart card authentication by selecting the "Require use of smart cards on fixed data drives" check box. Note:  These settings are enforced when turning on BitLocker, not when unlocking a drive. BitLocker will allow unlocking a drive with any of the protectors available on the drive. If you disable this policy setting, users are not allowed to use smart cards to authenticate their access to BitLocker-protected fixed data drives. If you do not configure this policy setting, smart cards can be used to authenticate user access to a BitLocker-protected drive.

|  | Path |
|--|--|
| **CSP** | Not available |
| **GPO** | **Computer Configuration** > **Administrative Templates** > **Windows Components** > **BitLocker Drive Encryption** > **Fixed Data Drives** |