How to Backup Encrypted Hard Drive in Windows 11/10/8/7

Why Backup BitLocker Encrypted Drive?

While encryption safeguards your files from unauthorized access, it does not eliminate the risks of hardware failure, system errors, or human mistakes. You may backup encrypted drives for the following reasons:

• Prevent data loss – Encryption doesn't protect against drive failure, accidental deletion, or malware.
• Avoid permanent lockout – Lost recovery keys or credentials can lock you out for good; backups ensure access.
• Safeguard system changes – OS upgrades, hardware swaps, or partition edits can break BitLocker—back up first.
• Recover from ransomware – Even encrypted drives can be attacked; recent backups restore data without paying ransoms.
• Ensure continuity – Quick recovery keeps personal or business operations running smoothly.

Best Freeware to Backup BitLocker Drive

When it comes to backing up a BitLocker-encrypted drive for free, AOMEI Backupper Standard stands out as the most reliable solution available for Windows users.

Don’t hesitate to download AOMEI Backupper and install it on your PC!

How to Backup Encrypted Hard Drive Step by Step

Follow these step-by-step instructions to safely back up your encrypted drive using AOMEI Backupper:

Step 1. Run AOMEI Backupper. Click on the Backup tab on the left panel and select Disk Backup.

Step 2. Click Select Source. Choose your BitLocker-encrypted drive from the list and click OK.

Step 3. Click the destination box to choose another location to save the disk image.

Step 4. To backup the encrypted drive, click Options > Advanced. Then choose Make an Exact Backup under Backup Method and click OK. This method requires the destination path to have at least the same capacity as the source disk.

Step 5. Click Schedule to enable automatic backups as necessary. Finally, click Start Backup to begin. The software will create an image of your encrypted drive without affecting your data.

Restore an Encrypted Hard Drive from Backup

To restore an encrypted hard drive from backup, go to Home > Restore. Then select the disk backup task from the list and follow the wizard to finish the process. Ensure Sector By Sector Restore is checked before starting restoration.

Best Practices for Secure Encrypted Drive Backup

Backing up an encrypted hard drive requires more than just copying data—it demands a strategy that preserves both security and recoverability. Here are some best practices:

✅ Follow the 3-2-1 Backup Rule

The golden rule of data protection:

• Keep 3 copies of your data
• Store backups on 2 different types of storage media
• Keep 1 copy offsite (cloud or remote location)

This approach minimizes the risk of total data loss due to hardware failure, theft, or disasters.

✅ Backup Without Compromising Encryption

• Prefer disk image backups to preserve the encrypted structure
• Avoid unnecessary decryption unless absolutely required
• If you encrypt backup files separately, use strong encryption standards (e.g., AES-256)

This ensures your data remains protected both at rest and in transit.

✅ Automate Your Backup Schedule

Manual backups are easy to forget. Instead:

• Set daily, weekly, or monthly schedules
• Use incremental backups to save time and storage
• Ensure backups run even when you're not actively using the system

Automation keeps your data consistently protected.

✅ Store Backups in Secure Locations

• Use external drives stored in a safe place
• Consider network-attached storage (NAS) with access controls
• Use encrypted cloud storage for offsite protection

Always ensure physical and digital security for your backup locations.

Bonus: How to Decrypt a BitLocker-Encrypted Drive

You might consider decryption if:

• You’re moving the drive to a system that doesn’t support BitLocker.
• You want full, unrestricted access to files without authentication.
• You’re planning to sell or repurpose the drive.

Now follow the steps below to decrypt a BitLocker-encrypted drive:

1. Open Control Panel and go to System and Security > BitLocker Drive Encryption.

2. Locate the encrypted drive and click Turn off BitLocker.

3. In the pop-up window, confirm your choice by clicking Turn off BitLocker again. The system will begin decrypting the drive. This may take time depending on the drive size and speed.

Summary

Encrypted drives add a layer of security – but they can complicate backups. This guide shows you how to backup encrypted hard drive using AOMEI Backupper. It simplifies the backup process for encrypted drives with the "Make an Exact Backup" (sector-by-sector backup) feature. What’s more, AOMEI Backupper is reliable file sync software that enables you to sync a laptop and a desktop. Why not give it a shot?