BitLocker Partition: How to Partition a BitLocker Drive on Windows 10

Updated by

Tracy King 

Last updated on May 14, 2024

Normally, most partition software is unable to resize partitions/volumes on a BitLocker encrypted drive. Fortunately, the latest tool Partition Master can perform BitLocker partition resizing. Check out the basics and follow the steps to partition your hard drive.

What is BitLocker and how does it work? BitLocker is a feature in the Microsoft Windows operating system designed to provide disk encryption. Its main purpose is to secure data, ensuring that information stored on the hard drive remains unreadable and tamper-proof even if the computer is lost, stolen, or accessed by unauthorized individuals. BitLocker works by encrypting the entire system drive (usually the C: drive) and removable storage devices using advanced encryption algorithms, such as AES. When the computer boots up and the user's identity is verified (e.g., through a PIN, password, smart card, or TPM chip), BitLocker decrypts the data, allowing the operating system and applications to function normally. The data is re-encrypted when the computer is shut down or enters sleep mode, protecting it from unauthorized access. Key components in how BitLocker operates include: 1. **Trusted Platform Module (TPM)**: A security chip built into many modern computer motherboards, which stores encryption keys and assists in verifying the system's integrity during boot-up. 2. **Boot Verification**: BitLocker checks the hash values of boot components (like BIOS or UEFI firmware) to ensure they have not been altered. 3. **Recovery Key**: In case the primary key is lost or forgotten, BitLocker provides a recovery key, typically a long string, that can be used to unlock the encrypted drive. 4. **Management Tools**: For enterprise environments, BitLocker also offers management tools that allow administrators to centrally control and monitor encryption policies, including setting storage for recovery keys and enforcing encryption on new drives. In summary, BitLocker provides a powerful means of data protection for both individuals and organizations, ensuring data security under various circumstances.

BitLocker is a Windows encryption technology designed to prevent data theft and unauthorized disclosure. It protects data by encrypting the Windows partition.

Availability:

- Windows Vista and Windows 7, in the Ultimate and Enterprise editions. - Windows 8 and 8.1, in the Pro and Enterprise editions. - Windows 10, in the Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions.

There are two modes of BitLocker encryption: TPM and USB. TPM (Trusted Platform Module) is a hardware component that computer manufacturers install in newer computers.

Note: To check if your PC has a TPM, open Device Manager by running “devmgmt.msc,” and look for a node called “Security Devices” and a TPM device underneath it.

If your computer doesn't have a TPM version, you can use a USB drive to encrypt the Windows operating system drive. This does require you to insert the USB startup key each time you start your computer. For more information on BitLocker, visit Microsoft's official website: Microsoft.

Download BitLocker Partition Software – Partition Master Tool

To resize a BitLocker partition or clone an encrypted BitLocker drive without disabling the protection, you can use the tool Partition Master. If you want to partition a BitLocker data drive, this powerful partition software can help you accomplish that easily.

How can I partition a BitLocker drive on Windows 10 without decrypting it?

Steps to resize/delete/format/shrink a partition:

Step 1: Click “Manage partitions,” select the BitLocker partition you want to decrypt, and then click “Unlock.” Type in your password to unlock BitLocker.

Step 2: Right-click on the BitLocker partition that you want to expand, and select "Resize/Move."

Step 3: Shrink or expand the BitLocker partition by dragging the mouse to the unallocated space

4. Click “Apply” and then “OK” to begin partitioning or resizing the BitLocker drive.

Additional tips about BitLocker partitions

1 - How to Use BitLocker

Step 1: Type “Control Panel” into the search box.

Step 2: Click on “System and Security” (or select it from “All Control Panel Items”), and then choose “BitLocker Drive Encryption.”

Step 3: Select the target partition under System disk or Removable data disk.

Step 4: Click “Turn on BitLocker.”

2 - How to Unlock a BitLocker Drive

Step 1: Open File Explorer and right-click the drive encrypted with BitLocker.

Step 2: Select “Unlock Hard Drive” from the menu.

Step 3: Type in your BitLocker password and click “Unlock”.

3 - BitLocker Partition Encryption: How to Decrypt BitLocker

Decryption might take some time to complete.

Step 1: Type “Control Panel” in the search box.

Step 2: Click on “System and Security” > Choose “BitLocker Drive Encryption.”

Step 3: Find the disk that you want to decrypt.

Click Turn Off BitLocker.

BitLocker on SSD/HDD Partition? Try Partition Software!

Now let's see how to resize a BitLocker partition or a BitLocker data drive. Was this article helpful? You can also read the following articles to learn more about BitLocker.

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