UNSOLVED
Bitlocker Screen and failed boot
We are having an ongoing problem with our Inspiron 15/3520, as follows:
- Over the past few months, there have been about 7 instances of getting the 'Bitlocker' screen come up. Fortunately, we have managed to get the code and recover the situation.
- In the past two days, we have had a problem in starting the laptop. Yesterday, after pressing the Power button, nothing happened although the mouse was visible (and movable) on the screen. After a long while, the laptop booted. Today, same behaviour, except that after a while, it went into the Bitlocker screen again.
Anyone have any ideas as to what is causing this?
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Posted September 8th, 2026 11:52
Thanks for the prompt reply.
I'm in the process of removing the Device Encryption, but could you explain what you mean by 'prove the viability of all the hardware involved'? How do I do that?
I've run the Dell Diagnostics tool, and that does not expose any issues.
(edited)
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Posted September 8th, 2026 16:28
Hi
If all he hardware passes the diagnostic, including any plugged in peripherals then that is all that should be necessary.
I wish you luck.
Bye.
Kind Regards
anne_droid
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Posted September 9th, 2026 15:12
I suggest your Suspend Bit-Locker (BDE) until computer is working more normally.
Check computer with Dell ePSA Diags (outside of Windows).
Check boot-drive SSD SMART-status (normally inside of Windows).
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1
Posted September 10th, 2026 17:20
Thank you for the suggestions. Both tests passed okay and the encryption is off.
So far, so good - the laptop has been behaving itself.
anne_droid
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4
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Posted September 8th, 2026 10:58
Hi
A hardware diagnostic, especially the storage device.
You could consider suspending BitLocker, and if the system appears stable, re-enable BitLocker.
But unfortunately there is insufficient detail to offer much else.
It could be a recent update, or some other software cause, but initially please prove the viability of all the hardware involved.
Kind Regards
anne_droid