When you use this tool to encrypt the system drive in Windows 7, a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 1.2 can be used by BitLocket to validate that the boot components, such as BIOS, the hardware profile, and the operating system that has not been modified from the configuration that was present when the drive was unlocked. A TPM is used to store keys, passwords, and digital certificates. You can find this chip on motherboard of a computer.
BITLOCKER1If not present on the system, the operating system drive may be encrypted by using an encryption key that is stored on removable media, which must be present every time the drive is unlocked. Besides TPM additional authentication methods for example personal authentication number (PIN) and the presence of an external startup key can be required to provide multi factor authentication before unlocking the operating system drive.
BitLocker protection can be used for fixed or removable storage drives. A fixed drive is a device that is permanently fixed and cannot remove frequently from the computer. There are data drives SCSI and ATA are example of fixed storage device. Removable data drives can be removed without shutting down the computer. USB drives and memory cards are examples of removable data drives. BitLocket uses encryption keys that are derived from the operating environment. These keys can be a password or smart card.
You should use this tool very carefully and with proper instructions. If an unlock method fails, such as if the TPM detects a change in boot components or a password is forgotten, you will need to use a recovery method to access your data.
Before starting the recovery process, you must determine that the drive was not tampered with and isolate the computer from the network until any risk presented by the system is determined. If the recovered drive is an operating system drive, the user must suspend and resume BitLocker protection in windows 7 setup to update the BitLocker profile with the changed configuration. If the OS drive boot components were changed and the computer has a TPM, the TPM should be reset by using the TPM Management snap-in. If the recovered drive was a data drive, you can use the Manage BitLocker option in the BitLocker Control Panel item to reset the unlock method.
Find it easier to log on to the computer using fingerprint biometric devices with new Windows 7.
Growing number of computers include embedded fingerprint readers which results in the authentication of user. Software needs to be provided by the manufacturer so that biometric devices can be supported. This results in the difficulty for the user to manage the use of the devices.
Windows 7 offers more consistent user experience. Its advanced features allow the user to launch fingerprint application. It offers the following:
1. Availability of biometric devices in windows 7 can be controlled by the user.
2. For biometric devices, Device Manager tool supports managing drivers.
3. To configure the use of the biometric data to log on to a local computer Credential provider support is made available.
4. You can easily update with Windows update as Biometric device driver software are available
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