We talk so much about cyber security, so we love it when we can report updates that offer significantly more secure services, without anyone having to lift a finger! This one is a massive step forward for businesses that use the Microsoft environment to communicate, store internal and client data and use it in daily operations. In its next big update to Windows 11, Microsoft is making BitLocker device encryption a default feature.
What is BitLocker device encryption?
If a work device gets stolen or is lost, its data becomes vulnerable to people who shouldn’t have access either by running some software, or by transferring the drive into a different device. BitLocker helps prevent this unauthorised access by increasing protections for files and system, and it makes the data inaccessible when protected devices are disposed of.
It’s designed to improve security by backing up the encryption recovery key to a Microsoft account. This key step in your layers of defence makes sure that your data is safe and that only you can access it in an emergency.
What’s new?
Version 24H2, the next Windows 11 upgrade, will bring significant changes for BitLocker encryption. Microsoft is reducing the requirements for automatic device encryption on hardware, which is the most notable change. Once implemented, BitLocker’s improved security capabilities will be available for a wider variety of devices, including those running Windows 11. Depending on how much data needs to be encrypted, Microsoft claims that rolling out this option can reduce encryption time by more than 99 percent, though it’s not the most secure approach to encrypt a drive.
When does this start?
It’s expected to be available on existing machines from the end of September, that means if you do a clean install of Windows 11 later in the year, or buy a device with Windows 11 pre-installed, then BitLocker encryption will be enabled by default. If you simply upgrade to the 24H2 version of Windows 11, it won’t be automatically enabled. Is there too much technical language here? Speak with the Microsoft specialists for a better understanding of the roll out.
Is it worth it?
Absolutely! If you think of some practical applications, your work device definitely contains some sensitive information and you have your laptop stolen on a train – that could have dire consequences. If the device has BitLocker enabled, the data on that laptop is going to be protected from falling into the wrong hands. So keep an eye out for when it’s available!
If you’d like to know more about how to use BitLocker across devices to protect company data, or have your updates and installed carried out automatically outside working hours to minimise disruption, please do get in touch – we’re here to help!
Further Reading: Cyber essentials for SMEs
