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Error after you enter a BitLocker PIN at Windows startup: Too many PIN entry attempts

  • Article

This article helps fix an error (Too many PIN entry attempts) that occurs after you enter a BitLocker PIN at Windows startup.

Applies to:   Windows 10 version 1809 and later versions, Windows Server 2012 R2, Windows 7 Service Pack 1, Windows Server 2008 R2 Service Pack 1
Original KB number:   4009797

Symptoms

After you enter a BitLocker PIN at Windows startup on a new computer that is running an OEM version of Windows, you receive the following error message:

Too many PIN entry attempts

Cause

This issue occurs because the OEM doesn't reset the lockout count before shipping the device.

Workaround

To work around this issue, try the following methods, in no particular order:

  • Input the BitLocker recovery key.

  • Wait until the unlock period expires, and then enter the correct PIN.

  • Reinstall the operating system, and then reset the TPM chip.

  • Unlock the drive or turn off BitLocker. To do it, follow these steps:

    1. At the BitLocker entry screen, press ESC to access other recovery options.

    2. Select the command prompt option.

    3. Enter Manage-bde to either unlock the system drive or turn off BitLocker. To do it, enter the appropriate command, and then press Enter:

      Unlock the system drive:

    manage-bde -unlock <DriveLetter>: -recoverypassword <Password>
manage-bde -unlock <DriveLetter>: -recoverykey <RecoveryKey>

    Turn off BitLocker:

    manage-bde -off <DriveLetter>:

    For more information, see the following articles:

  • Contact the OEM for support.

More information

For more information about how to reset the TPM chip, see Reset the TPM Lockout.