BitLocker drive encryption coming April 25
As part of Mohawk Colleges commitment to Information Security; the Information Technology (IT) division will be rolling out BitLocker drive encryption starting April 25th, 2022.
The roll out will occur gradually to all staff college-owned Windows computers including desktop, laptops and Surface mobile devices
Please see the F.A.Q below:
What is BitLocker?
BitLocker Drive Encryption is a data protection feature that integrates with the operating system and addresses the threats of data theft or exposure from lost, stolen, or inappropriately decommissioned computers. BitLocker is a technology which protects information by converting it into unreadable code that cannot be deciphered by unauthorized people. For more detailed information please see: BitLocker
Will I need to be connected to the College network?
Yes, for BitLocker to begin the process of encrypting your drive you will need to be connected to the College network. When working from home, you will need to connect over VPN to start this process.
Will this affect any USB drives?
Information Technology is applying this to fixed internal drives only. External drivesUSB memory sticks should be encrypted with the same technology by users following the “Encrypting USB Devices (PDF)” instructions on the Technology Solutions tab of MyMohawk.
Does this effect Academic labs?
No, Academic labs are not part of this implementation.
Will I know this is happening?
The process is completely transparent, there are no notifications.
What happens if the process is interrupted? (power off machine, reboot it)
Nothing, the BitLocker encryption process resumes on the next boot.
How can I tell my computer has been successfully encrypted?
Opening Windows Explorer + 'E' - choose This PC - looking at the OSDisk (C:) you should see something like the following:
This icon is a visual indicator that the process was successful
What types of devices will be targeted?
Any staff members devices running a Windows operating system.
My computer is prompting me for a recovery key, what do I do?
Contact the IT Service Desk they can assist you in troubleshooting the issue and providing a recovery key.
Thank you
Mohawk College Information Technology Team
Visit the ITS website to learn more about available services, resources, and submit or review ticket status on the IT Self Service Portal