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How to Fix a Bitlocker Fatal Error During Startup
The users confirm that disabling the Bitlocker solves this error on Windows 10
5 min. read
Updated onApril 16, 2024
updated onApril 16, 2024
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Key notes
Are you a Windows user experiencing Bitlocker fatal error with code 0x00000120? This (Blue Screen of Death) BSoD error pops up resulting in automatic shutdown and/or system restart.
BitLocker is a full-diskencryptionfeature that protects data by providingencryption; hence, it is a Windows security feature.
It uses the AESencryptionalgorithm in cipher block chaining (CBC) or XTS mode with a 128-bit or 256-bit key.
Meanwhile, BitLocker is not available on Windows XP, Windows 2000, or Windows 2003 OS but in subsequent OS versions.
However, the Bitlocker fatal error BSoD appears during the boot process inWindowsOS, and today, we will show you how to solve this error problem.
The reasons for this error include corrupted system files, corrupted Bitlocker program files, incomplete Windows installation and/or upgrade or corruption in the Bitlocker driveencryption.
Other reasons may imply the addition/removal of drives, missing Dynamic Link Libraries(DLL) or even changes in the BIOS boot order.
Meanwhile, Windows Report Team has provided solutions that are applicable in fixing the Bitlocker fatal error with stop code 0x00000120.
How can I fix the Bitlocker fatal error on Windows PC?
1. Use a dedicated tool for BSoD
BSoD errors are hard to troubleshoot and diagnose. There are plenty of reasons for them, fromhardwareto software issues. Fortunately, there are tools to help you out.
Namely, you can usea system repair tooland clean your computer like a pro. If your PC doesn’t work great anymore, these tools will free up hard drive space and optimize your PC’s performance.
We suggest you use one of these effective utilities that can fix corrupt system files, remove obsolete system files, and repair your PC registry.
Moreover, they can be used to delete the browsing history and trackers to keep browsing private, update software to close security holes, and monitor your system info.
2. Disconnect your USB devices
According to some Windows users, USB devices such as Wi-Fi adapters, keyboards, mice, and Bluetooth or can cause this problem to occur.
During boot, the system may attempt to boot from any of these devices resulting in the Bitlocker fatal error display.
However, you can fix this issue, by disconnecting all attached USB devices and booting your system afterward.
In addition, check your PC if there is any CD, DVD, or any other secondary storage devices and eject them before you boot up your PC. If this method does not work, you can proceed to the next method.
3. Use the Disk Cleanup tool
You can also fix theerrorproblem by running disk cleanup on your Windows PC. Disk Cleanup is a Windows utility program that reduces the number of unnecessary files on your hard disk to free up disk space.
4. Repair the computer registry
Another way by which you can fix Bitlocker’s fatal error problem is to use System File Checker. SFC can be used to scan, check for system file integrity, and fix corrupt system files.
If you encounter errors while running SFC, it stops or does not work at all on Windows 10, take a look at ourdedicated guidein order to fix the issue.
5. Reset BIOS settings
BIOSconsists of system settings that determine the order and how your PC boots up. However, resetting BIOS settings to the default state can fix the Bitlocker fatal error problem.
Before you proceed with these steps, ensure you disconnect connected external drives (as indicated in Method 1).
6. Update your Windows OS
Microsoft constantly releases Windows updates to improve system stability, PC performance, and fix various issues and errors such as the Bitlocker fatal error.
7. Disable the Bitlocker
However, if you are unable to fix the BitLocker fatal error using the methods listed above, then you may have to disable the Bitlocker from your computer.
After you disable Bitlocker, we do recommend that you use any of thebest 256-bit encryption softwareto protect your files. In addition, you may also consider file and folder locker tools and software for Windows PC.
If you don’t know how to disable the Bitlocker on your computer, we recommend you use ourdedicated guideon how to perform this action.
If you have wondered how to fix this Bitlocker problem, you can try out any of the methods we discussed in any order. If you have any suggestions, feel free to let us know in the comment section below.
More about the topics:Bitlocker,BSoD error codes
Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Passionate about all elements related to Windows and combined with his innate curiosity, Ivan has delved deep into understanding this operating system, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
When he’s not tackling diverse driver-related problems, Ivan enjoys watching good movies and spending time hiking with his family and friends.
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Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Ivan has delved deep into understanding the Windows OS, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
