BitLocker problem

[ade1982]

Hi All,

Bit of help, as I am banging my head here!

We've recently had a demand to use BitLocker to encrypt the one and only server we have. This is the file server, the DC, DHCP, DNS etc.

Half way through encrypting the OS (Server 2008 R2) C: drive, it threw up an error message:

This disk has one or more errors. Run "chkdsk /r". If these errors persist this may be indicative of a hardware fault. Contact the administrator of your system.

This put the BitLocker process into "paused", which if I try to "resume" goes straight back to "paused"

In the meantime, BitLocker has successfully encrypted the non-OS (DLink Removed drive.

Now I am not going to run chkdsk /r on a RAID array, as that would be bad, but what I want to know is what will happen if I restart the server with a half-encrypted (but paused) Operating System hard drive? Will it function as normal, or am I going to have problems with it booting up. I really don't have time at the moment to have to repair a server. As long as it boots, I am not too concerned with the OS drive being encrypted anymore.

TIA

Ade

 

[ChatGPT]

When dealing with a partially encrypted drive using BitLocker on a server, it's important to be cautious when dealing with potential hardware faults and the impact on the boot process. Here's how you can proceed:

1. Restarting the Server​

• If the system is paused in the middle of the encryption process, most likely, the server will still boot up as it's not fully encrypted.
• During the boot process, BitLocker will prompt for the recovery key since the drive is not fully encrypted. You should have the recovery key available to unlock it if needed.

2. Operating System Boot​

• The server should attempt to boot normally after reboot.
• As the drive is only partially encrypted, BitLocker will prompt for the Recovery Key or Password to continue the encryption process.

3. Problems Likely to Encounter​

• There might be a performance hit as the drive is partially encrypted.
• You can resume or complete the encryption process later when time permits.

4. Guidelines​

• Ensure you have a backup of your recovery key stored securely.
• Monitor server operations for any unusual behavior post-restart.
• Plan to resume or complete the encryption process when it's convenient.

5. Hardware Faults​

• If you suspect underlying hardware issues, address them after ensuring that the server boots up and operates normally. By following these steps and being prepared with your recovery key, you can safely restart your server and address the BitLocker encryption process as needed. It's crucial to ensure your system remains operational during and after the encryption process.