A BitLocker recovery key is needed when BitLocker can’t automatically unlock an encrypted drive in Windows. This key, which is a 48-digit number, is used to regain access to the drive.

This utility creates a USB recovery media that can help you restore your Windows device to its factory settings, even if you replace the hard drive or completely wipe the drive.

Learn how to reset your Microsoft Surface and solve problems using a USB recovery drive or Surface recovery image.

Instead, if the product key in the firmware matches the version and edition of Windows being installed, the product key is automatically applied. After the installation media is created, …

Your Surface comes with Windows recovery info that you can use to refresh your Surface or reset it to its factory condition. When possible, try to do that first before downloading a recovery image.

Fix problems using Windows Update is a recovery tool that can help resolve issues related to updates. Using this tool will reinstall the current version of Windows on your device.

Oct 14, 2025 · Learn how to use Windows File Recovery app to restore or recover lost files that have been deleted and are not in the recycle bin.

This article provides information to back up your BitLocker recovery key. To learn how to verify if you have a BitLocker recovery key backed up to you Microsoft or work or school account, see …

Contact Microsoft Support. Find solutions to common problems, or get help from a support agent.

The steps below will help guide you when filling out the account recovery form. It can be a lengthy process as it's designed to ask questions about your account that only you can answer.