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How to Fix TPM Not Working Errors on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

If you are experiencing issues with TPM (Trusted Platform Module) on your Windows 11 PC, you are not alone. TPM is essential for security features like BitLocker and Windows Hello, and when it stops working, it can be frustrating.

This article will guide you through simple, step-by-step solutions to fix TPM errors on Windows 11. Each step is explained clearly to help even users with minimal technical knowledge.

By following these instructions, you should be able to resolve most TPM-related problems and get your system’s security features back up and running.

Let’s start with some quick checks before diving into the solutions.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Check TPM availability: Not all PCs have TPM hardware. To verify, press Windows + R, type tpm.msc, and press Enter. If TPM Management opens and shows TPM status, your device has TPM.
  • Ensure Windows 11 is up to date: TPM issues can sometimes be fixed by installing the latest Windows updates.
  • Backup your data: Before making any changes, it’s always good to back up important files to avoid data loss.
  • Administrator access: You will need administrator privileges to perform many of the steps below.

Step 1: Check TPM Status in Device Manager

First, confirm if Windows detects your TPM device correctly.

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Security devices section.
  3. Look for Trusted Platform Module in the list.
  4. If you see a yellow exclamation mark or the device is missing, this indicates a problem.

Why this step matters: Device Manager shows hardware status and driver issues. If TPM is missing or has errors, Windows can’t use it properly.

Step 2: Enable TPM in BIOS/UEFI Settings

TPM can be disabled in your computer’s BIOS or UEFI firmware settings. Enabling it there often resolves the issue.

  1. Restart your PC.
  2. During startup, press the key to enter BIOS/UEFI setup (usually Del, F2, or Esc). Check your PC manual or manufacturer’s website for the exact key.
  3. Navigate to the Security or Advanced tab (this varies by manufacturer).
  4. Find an option named TPM, PTT (Intel Platform Trust Technology), or fTPM (AMD’s firmware TPM).
  5. Set TPM to Enabled.
  6. Save and exit BIOS/UEFI (usually F10).

Why this step matters: TPM can be turned off at the firmware level for security or compatibility reasons. Enabling it here allows Windows to use the module.

Step 3: Clear the TPM

If TPM is enabled but still not working, you may need to clear it. Clearing TPM resets it to factory defaults, which can fix corruption or configuration errors.

  1. Press Windows + R, type tpm.msc, and press Enter.
  2. In the TPM Management window, look on the right side for the Clear TPM option.
  3. Click Clear TPM, then follow the prompts. Your PC will restart.
  4. During restart, you might be asked to confirm clearing TPM in the BIOS. Confirm to proceed.

Important: Clearing TPM will delete all keys stored in it, which can affect encrypted data or BitLocker. Ensure you have necessary recovery information before proceeding.

Step 4: Update TPM Driver

Outdated or corrupted TPM drivers can cause errors. Updating the driver may resolve the issue.

  1. Open Device Manager.
  2. Expand Security devices and right-click on Trusted Platform Module.
  3. Select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for drivers.
  5. If Windows finds an update, install it and restart your PC.

Why this matters: Drivers help Windows communicate with hardware. A bad driver can stop TPM from functioning.

Step 5: Run Windows Security Troubleshooter

Windows has built-in troubleshooters that can detect and fix common security-related issues.

  1. Open Settings via the Start menu.
  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Windows Security or related troubleshooters and click Run.
  4. Follow on-screen instructions to complete the process.

This tool can automatically fix simple TPM-related problems.

Step 6: Check for Windows Updates

Sometimes TPM issues are fixed with system updates.

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Go to Windows Update.
  3. Click Check for updates.
  4. Install any available updates and restart your PC.

Step 7: Reset TPM Using PowerShell (Advanced)

If other solutions don’t work, you can reset TPM using PowerShell, but proceed with caution.

  1. Search for PowerShell, right-click it, and select Run as administrator.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
Clear-Tpm

This command clears the TPM. You will likely be asked to restart your computer and confirm the clear in BIOS.

Note: Like the manual clear, this deletes TPM keys and may affect encrypted data.

FAQs

What is TPM and why is it important?

TPM is a hardware chip that stores cryptographic keys securely. It enhances system security by enabling features like BitLocker encryption and Windows Hello.

Can I use Windows 11 without TPM?

Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0 for installation and operation to meet security standards. Some advanced users may bypass this, but it’s not recommended.

My TPM status shows “The TPM is ready for use.” but Windows still shows an error. What should I do?

Try updating your TPM driver and running Windows Security troubleshooter. Also, check for any pending Windows updates.

Will clearing TPM cause data loss?

Clearing TPM removes all keys stored on it and can make encrypted data inaccessible. Always back up recovery keys for BitLocker or other encryption before clearing TPM.

How do I find out if TPM is enabled on my PC?

Press Windows + R, type tpm.msc, and press Enter. The TPM Management window will show the status.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and TPM is still not working, here are some last-resort options:

  • Check Manufacturer Support: Visit your PC manufacturer’s website for BIOS updates or TPM firmware updates.
  • Reset BIOS to Default: Sometimes resetting BIOS settings to default can fix TPM detection issues.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: For persistent TPM errors, Microsoft support can provide specialized help.
  • Consider Hardware Issues: TPM is hardware-based; if the chip is faulty, professional repair or replacement may be necessary.

Conclusion

TPM not working errors on Windows 11 can be fixed by following a series of logical steps, starting with simple checks and moving to more advanced solutions.

Enabling TPM in BIOS, clearing TPM carefully, updating drivers, and running troubleshooters often solve the problem. Always back up important data before making changes, especially when clearing TPM.

If problems persist, don’t hesitate to seek help from your PC manufacturer or Microsoft support. With patience and the right steps, you can restore your system’s security features and enjoy a safer Windows 11 experience.

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