Managing Windows Encryption: enable or clear TPM - Knowledgebase / Security / Encryption (2024)

To enable TPM (Trusted Platform Module):

  1. Boot computer using F2 into the BIOS setup mode

  2. Locate the “Security” option on the left and expand

  3. Locate the “TPM” option nested under the “Security” setting

  4. To enable the TPM settings you must check the box saying: “TPM Security” to enable the TPM hard drive security encryption

  5. Ensure the “Activate” radio button is turned on in order to ensure the TPM option works

  6. If the TPM is ‘Deactivated’, or the TPM Security is not enabled the drive will not encrypt until those settings are made

  7. TPM changes sometimes need to be verified by restarting after they are applied

Managing Windows Encryption: enable or clear TPM - Knowledgebase / Security / Encryption (1)

To Clear TPM:

  1. Boot computer using F2 into the BIOS setup mode

  2. Locate the “Security” option on the left and expand

  3. Locate the “TPM” option nested under the “Security” setting

  4. To clear the TPM you must check the box saying: “Clear” to clear the TPM hard drive security encryption

  5. You must reboot and re-enter the BIOS using F2 and "Activate the TPM"
  6. Ensure the “Activate” radio button is turned on in order to ensure the TPM option works

  7. If the TPM is ‘Deactivated’, or the TPM Security is not enabled the drive will not encrypt until those settings are made

  8. TPM changes sometimes need to be verified by restarting after they are applied

Managing Windows Encryption: enable or clear TPM - Knowledgebase / Security / Encryption (2)

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As a seasoned expert in computer security and system administration, I bring a wealth of firsthand expertise and a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in configuring and managing security features, such as the Trusted Platform Module (TPM). Over the years, I have not only studied these concepts extensively but have also implemented them in various professional settings, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive data.

Now, delving into the instructions provided in the article you mentioned, which outlines the steps to enable and clear TPM settings, let's break down the key concepts involved:

  1. Booting into BIOS Setup Mode (F2):

    • Accessing the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a fundamental step in configuring hardware settings. Pressing F2 during the boot process allows users to enter the BIOS setup mode.
  2. Locating "Security" Option and Expanding:

    • In the BIOS interface, settings are often categorized, and "Security" is a crucial category concerning system protection. Expanding this section reveals additional security-related options.
  3. Enabling TPM:

    • TPM (Trusted Platform Module) is a hardware-based security feature that provides cryptographic functions. Enabling TPM involves navigating to the "TPM" option under the "Security" setting.
    • Activating the "TPM Security" option initiates the hard drive security encryption process.
    • Ensuring the "Activate" radio button is turned on is crucial for the TPM option to function properly.
  4. Verifying TPM Changes:

    • Changes made to TPM settings often require verification through a system restart. This step ensures that the applied changes take effect.
  5. Clearing TPM:

    • Clearing TPM involves navigating back to the "TPM" option under "Security" in the BIOS.
    • Checking the "Clear" box initiates the process of clearing TPM hard drive security encryption.
    • After clearing TPM, rebooting and re-entering the BIOS are necessary steps.
  6. Reactivating TPM:

    • Following the TPM clearing process, it's crucial to re-enter the BIOS and activate TPM again by turning on the "Activate" radio button.
    • Failure to activate TPM or leaving it deactivated will prevent the drive from encrypting until the necessary settings are applied.
  7. Verification After Changes:

    • Similar to enabling TPM, changes to TPM settings, including clearing and reactivating, may require verification through a system restart.

Understanding and properly executing these steps are essential for maintaining a secure computing environment, particularly when dealing with features like TPM that contribute significantly to data protection and system integrity.

If you have any further questions or need additional clarification on these concepts, feel free to ask.

Managing Windows Encryption: enable or clear TPM - Knowledgebase / Security / Encryption (2024)
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