Microsoft began pushing BitLocker with the Windows 11 23H2 update, which made BitLocker the default for new installations on supported systems.

Windows 11 Pro nevertheless activates BitLocker’s software-based encryption during installation without giving you the ability to prevent it.

Many corporate clients use BitLocker to secure their PC fleets, Lambertz noted, and the encryption technology is now being enabled by default on newer Windows 11 installations.

BitLocker is an on-by-default setting in Windows 11 Pro that is meant to encrypt and protect your data.