What is the primary function of BitLocker-managed keys?

BitLocker-managed keys play a crucial role in disk encryption, specifically within the context of Windows operating systems. The primary function of these keys is to handle encryption for disk recovery. BitLocker is designed to secure the data stored on a hard drive by encrypting the entire drive. In the event of a system failure, lost password, or when someone attempts to access the drive in an unauthorized manner, BitLocker-managed keys can be utilized to unlock and recover data on the encrypted disk.

Managing disk recovery involves ensuring that the encryption keys are securely stored and can be retrieved when necessary—this is especially critical in enterprise environments where data security is paramount. Therefore, the primary goal of BitLocker-managed keys is to provide a secure mechanism for recovering encrypted disks while maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of the stored data.