How to Deploy BitLocker via SCCM Task Sequence

Summary:

Deploying BitLocker via SCCM (System Center Configuration Manager) task sequence automates the encryption of Windows drives during OS deployment. This ensures enterprise-wide compliance with security policies while minimizing manual intervention. SCCM integrates BitLocker management steps—such as pre-provisioning, key escrow to Active Directory, and TPM (Trusted Platform Module) configuration—into a structured deployment workflow. Common triggers include new device provisioning, OS refreshes, or security policy enforcement. Properly implementing this process safeguards data at rest while maintaining seamless integration with enterprise infrastructure.

What This Means for You:

• Immediate Impact: Automates BitLocker encryption during OS deployment, reducing manual effort and ensuring consistent security compliance.
• Data Accessibility & Security: Ensures encrypted data remains accessible only to authorized users, with keys securely stored in Active Directory.
• System Functionality & Recovery: Requires proper TPM initialization and network connectivity during deployment to avoid boot failures.
• Future Outlook & Prevention Warning: Test task sequences in a lab first; misconfigurations can lead to unbootable systems or lost encryption keys.

Explained: How to Deploy BitLocker via SCCM Task Sequence

Solution 1: Configuring BitLocker Pre-Provisioning

BitLocker pre-provisioning initiates encryption before the OS installs, saving time. In SCCM, add a Pre-provision BitLocker step after disk partitioning but before “Apply Operating System”:


1. Edit the task sequence > Add > Disk > Pre-provision BitLocker.
2. Enable "Windows 10 and later" mode for TPM 2.0.
3. Choose encryption method (e.g., XTS-AES 256-bit).
4. Skip if TPM is incompatible (optional).


This step writes encryption metadata to the disk, allowing the OS install phase to resume seamlessly.

Solution 2: Enabling BitLocker Post-OS Installation

After OS deployment, configure the Enable BitLocker step to finalize encryption:


1. Add the step under "Post-Installation" > "Enable BitLocker".
2. Select TPM-only or TPM+PIN authentication.
3. Set "Configure escrow of recovery information to Active Directory" as required.
4. Specify encryption scope (used space vs. entire drive).


Ensure the SCCM client can communicate with Active Directory to escrow keys successfully.

Solution 3: Handling TPM Validation Errors

If TPM fails initialization, insert a command-line step before BitLocker tasks:


1. Add "Run Command Line":
powershell.exe -command "Initialize-Tpm -AllowClear -AllowPhysicalPresence"
2. For TPM 2.0 compatibility issues, enable "Auto-activate" in BIOS/UEFI.
3. Log results via tpm.msc for troubleshooting.


Skip BitLocker steps if TPM is absent by setting a WMI condition: SELECT * FROM Win32_Tpm WHERE IsEnabled_InitialValue = TRUE.

Solution 4: Escrowing Recovery Keys to Active Directory

For centralized recovery, confirm AD schema extensions for BitLocker are applied:


1. Verify using Get-ADObject -Filter {name -like "ms-FVE-RecoveryInformation"}.
2. In SCCM, enable "Backup recovery information to Active Directory" in the task sequence.
3. Test key retrieval with Get-BitLockerVolume | Get-BitLockerRecoveryKey.


Network delays may cause escrow failures—ensure DNS and domain connectivity during OSD.

People Also Ask About:

• Can SCCM deploy BitLocker without TPM? Yes, via USB startup key or password, but this violates Microsoft security baselines.
• How to verify BitLocker status post-deployment? Use Manage-bde -status or SCCM’s Compliance Settings.
• Why does BitLocker fail during SCCM OSD? Common causes include missing AD permissions, TPM errors, or driver issues.
• Is suspending BitLocker during updates necessary? Only for BIOS/firmware updates; automate via SCCM maintenance windows.

Other Resources:

• Microsoft Docs: BitLocker Task Sequence Steps
• NIST SP 800-111: Storage Encryption Guidelines

Suggested Protections:

• Deploy BitLocker policies via SCCM Compliance Baselines for ongoing management.
• Monitor encryption status with SCCM reports like “BitLocker Compliance”.
• Use hardware with TPM 2.0 and UEFI firmware for modern security features.
• Document recovery key retrieval procedures for help desk teams.
• Test deployments in audit mode before enforcing encryption.

Expert Opinion:

Integrating BitLocker into SCCM task sequences shifts encryption from an IT overhead to a transparent, policy-driven process. However, enterprises must balance automation with flexibility—rigid implementations may break legacy systems. Future Windows releases will deepen SCCM’s integration with Pluton security processors, reducing reliance on discrete TPM chips.

Related Key Terms:

• BitLocker Management
• SCCM Task Sequence
• TPM Initialization
• Active Directory Key Escrow
• OSD Encryption
• XTS-AES 256
• UEFI Secure Boot

*Featured image sourced by DallE-3