Thanks to its next update, 24H2, Windows 11 might have SSD encryption enabled by default. While this may sound like a pro for many who enjoy extra data security, tests have shown that it may cause hard drive speeds to drop by a significant 45%.
The data encryption software BitLocker was previously only available to Windows Pro users. Still, users with the standard edition will get this feature, too, in the next update. Those installing fresh copies of Windows 11 or buying PCs with pre-installed software should expect this feature to be enabled by default.
It’s worth noting that those of us who install the update on our already running copies of Windows 11 will not have this feature automatically enabled. To enable it, you must head to Settings > Privacy & Encryption > Device Encryption.
As pointed out by The Verge, Microsoft has yet to comment on the performance effects of having BitLocker enabled by default. They have only listed the feature in some support documents with no mention of any dips in performance, which could mean that Microsoft has somehow figured out how to enable encryption without such a drop in hard drive speeds. That, or they are favouring security over performance.
If you’re a performance fundi, be sure to check if BitLocker is enabled on your machine when the update rolls out over the next few months and see if you notice any changes for yourself.
