Fix TPM/BitLocker Error 0x80090016

How to Resolve TPM or BitLocker Error 0x80090016
The 0x80090016 error is a security-related issue in Windows that typically occurs when there is a problem with the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) or BitLocker encryption. The error message often states, “Keyset does not exist,” which means the system cannot access the encryption keys required to operate. This can happen after a BIOS update, a hardware change, or a software conflict.

This guide will provide a series of effective solutions to resolve this error by troubleshooting the TPM and BitLocker services.

Understanding the Error 0x80090016
This error code is a clear signal that the system’s security features are malfunctioning. The primary causes are:

TPM Malfunction: The TPM chip, which stores cryptographic keys, may be corrupted or not functioning correctly due to a BIOS update or a hardware issue.

Corrupted BitLocker Keys: The encryption keys used by BitLocker are damaged, preventing the system from accessing or creating them.

User Account Corruption: The user profile may be damaged, leading to permission issues that prevent access to the TPM.

BIOS/UEFI Configuration Change: Changing settings in the BIOS, such as switching from Legacy to UEFI mode or updating the firmware, can affect the TPM.

Пошаговые решения
Solution 1: Clear the TPM from the BIOS/UEFI
Clearing the TPM is a common and effective way to fix corruption. This will reset the TPM to its default state.

Restart your computer and enter your BIOS/UEFI setup (often by pressing a key like F2, F10, Del, or Esc).

Navigate to the Security settings.

Find an option like “TPM Security,” “TPM Device,” or “Clear TPM.”

Enable the “Clear TPM” option and save your changes. The system will prompt you to confirm the action.

Restart your computer.

Solution 2: Reset BitLocker and Suspend Protection
If the error occurs after a BitLocker-related action, you can try resetting its state.

Press the Windows key + R, type cmd, and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open Command Prompt as an administrator.

Type the following command and press Enter:
manage-bde -off C: (Replace C: with the drive letter of your BitLocker-encrypted volume.)
This command will begin the decryption process, which may take some time.

Once the drive is decrypted, try to re-enable BitLocker. If that fails, go back to the Command Prompt and type:
manage-bde -status C:
If the status is “Decryption in Progress,” wait for it to complete.

Solution 3: Re-create the User’s Profile
If the error is tied to a specific user account, a corrupted profile might be the cause.

Log in with a different administrator account.

Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.

Remove the problematic user account.

Re-create the user account.

Transfer the old user’s files and data from their user folder (C:Users) to the new account.

Часто задаваемые вопросы
Q: Will clearing the TPM erase my data?
A: No, clearing the TPM will not erase your personal data. However, it will remove all cryptographic keys stored in the TPM. If you use BitLocker, you will need your recovery key to access the encrypted drive. If you don’t have the recovery key, you may lose access to your data.

Q: I can’t find the TPM settings in my BIOS. What’s wrong?
A: Your BIOS may have a different layout or terminology. Look for “Security” or “Advanced” sections. If you still can’t find it, your computer may not have a TPM chip, or it may be disabled by default. Check your motherboard manual for specific instructions.

Q: Is there a way to fix this without a recovery key?
A: No. If you use BitLocker and do not have your recovery key, you will not be able to decrypt your drive. This is a crucial security feature. It is essential to back up your recovery key.

Заключение
The 0x80090016 error is a serious security issue related to TPM and BitLocker. By clearing the TPM, resetting BitLocker, or re-creating a user profile, you can resolve most software-related conflicts. However, always exercise caution when dealing with encryption and have your BitLocker recovery key ready before performing any troubleshooting steps. If the problem persists, a hardware failure may be the root cause.