How to Disable BitLocker in Windows 11 Using Command Prompt (Simple Steps)

[Andy]

Did you know Windows 11 often enables BitLocker by default? While this is great for security, there are times when you may want to turn it off — like when dual-booting, cloning a drive, or troubleshooting performance. Here’s the simplest way to disable BitLocker using Command Prompt in just a few steps.

Step-by-Step: Disable BitLocker Using manage-bde​

1. Open Command Prompt or PowerShell as Administrator
2. Run the following to check the current BitLocker status:
   

   PS C:\Users\Andy> manage-bde -status C:
   BitLocker Drive Encryption: Configuration Tool version 10.0.26100
   Copyright (C) 2013 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.
   
   Volume C: []
   [OS Volume]
   
       Size:                 476.19 GB
       BitLocker Version:    2.0
       Conversion Status:    Used Space Only Encrypted
       Percentage Encrypted: 100.0%
       Encryption Method:    XTS-AES 128
       Protection Status:    Protection On
       Lock Status:          Unlocked
       Identification Field: Unknown
       Key Protectors:
           TPM
           Numerical Password

3. To turn off BitLocker and start decryption, enter:
   

   PS C:\Users\Andy> manage-bde -off C:
   BitLocker Drive Encryption: Configuration Tool version 10.0.26100
   Copyright (C) 2013 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.
   
   Decryption is now in progress.

4. You can monitor the decryption progress with:
   

   [*]PS C:\Users\Andy> manage-bde -status C:
   BitLocker Drive Encryption: Configuration Tool version 10.0.26100
   Copyright (C) 2013 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.
   
   Volume C: []
   [OS Volume]
   
       Size:                 476.19 GB
       BitLocker Version:    2.0
       Conversion Status:    Decryption in Progress
       Percentage Encrypted: 35.1%
       Encryption Method:    XTS-AES 128
       Protection Status:    Protection Off
       Lock Status:          Unlocked
       Identification Field: Unknown
       Key Protectors:
           TPM
           Numerical Password

Important Notes:​

• Do not power off your device during the decryption process.
  Although it’s safe to restart your computer — the decryption will resume where it left off — I highly recommend keeping it powered on and uninterrupted until the process is complete for best reliability.
• This process may take time depending on your drive size and speed.
• Once complete, BitLocker will be fully disabled for that volume.

Final Thoughts​

BitLocker is a powerful security feature, but it’s not always ideal for every use case. Whether you’re working in IT, setting up a dual-boot, or cloning drives, now you know how to take back control with a simple command.