6

With TrueCrypt not officially supporting Windows 8 yet, Bitlocker appears to be the default option for full disk encryption on a new laptop. However, Bitlocker suffers a major usability degradation on systems without a TPM (need to store keys on a flashdrive or enter a 48 digit pin instead of a password).

My problem is that I can't find any way to determine if a laptop is equipped with a TPM; even looking at models that I know have them (eg Dell Latitude) it doesn't appear to be listed anywhere.

5
  • There's always contacting the retailer and asking them straight out...
    – Darael
    Jan 28, 2013 at 2:24
  • @Darael only as a last resort; and I'd probably be forced to contact OEMs directly since I'm skeptical about Newegg's support staff knowing that. Jan 28, 2013 at 2:28
  • Quite. It's far from optimal. However, it's quite likely to be the only option in most cases.
    – Darael
    Jan 28, 2013 at 9:14
  • I have noticed laptop brands also list it as feature on their websites
    – user398328
    Apr 7, 2018 at 20:35
  • If you've came here in regards to Windows 11 upgrade requirements, I suggest looking at this question instead: superuser.com/questions/1659465/will-my-computer-run-windows-11 Jun 29, 2021 at 15:14

2 Answers 2

6

At least every system branded with Intel vPro has to be equipped with a TPM.

For a particular model the manual usually states whether it has a TPM or not, at least the ones I checked. Sometimes they refer to the TPM as security chip or something like that, but when you search the documents you can usually find the terms TPM or Trusted Platform Module. Lenovo for example has a special section on BitLocker in the ThinkPad manuals I've had a look at.

As a rule of thumb, all business class systems come with a TPM (Lenovo ThinkPads, HP Elitebook, ...)

1
0

it appears that all 7th gen i-series intel processors have a tpm. but I've been so jaded about all this bullshit I'm not sure i fully trust that. dealing with tpm/bitlocker issues has made my life effin' miserable

https://www.intel.com/content/dam/www/public/us/en/documents/product-briefs/7th-gen-core-family-desktop-brief.pdf

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .