What does BitLocker primarily encrypt?

BitLocker primarily encrypts hard drives that are set inside of a device, specifically operating system drives and fixed data drives. This encryption protects the entire drive's contents from unauthorized access, ensuring that if the device is lost or stolen, the data remains secure. The technology uses AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) and is integrated into the Windows operating system, making it a key feature for safeguarding data against various threats.

Since BitLocker operates at the drive level, it effectively protects all data stored on the drive, including applications and system files, not just user-generated content like documents or emails. This is why its primary function is related to hard drive encryption rather than elements such as network connections or individual files. By focusing on the entire drive, BitLocker provides comprehensive security for sensitive information stored on that device, making it an essential tool for data protection policies in organizations.