Clearing the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) resets it to its factory-default state and invalidates TPM cryptographic material created by the previous owner. Microsoft warns that clearing the TPM causes you to lose TPM keys created and used by applications, so data protected only by those keys can become inaccessible. Do not clear the TPM as routine maintenance. Before doing it, make sure you have another way to access protected data and the recovery information you would need if BitLocker, Windows Hello, or another TPM-backed feature asks you to recover access.
Before You Clear the TPM
- Save your work and back up important files.
- Check whether BitLocker or device encryption protects the computer.
- Make sure you can access the correct BitLocker recovery key if encryption is enabled.
- Confirm that you know the passwords or recovery methods for accounts and applications that use the PC.
- If this is a work or school computer, contact the administrator before continuing.
A BitLocker recovery key is a unique 48-digit key. Do not assume you will be able to retrieve it after a problem occurs; verify your recovery path before changing TPM state.
When Should You Clear the TPM?
Clear it only when a trusted Microsoft, PC-manufacturer, administrator, or application troubleshooting procedure specifically calls for a TPM reset—for example, to resolve a known TPM provisioning problem or as part of an approved ownership/decommissioning process. Clearing it will not make a healthy PC faster.
How to Clear the TPM from Windows Security
- Open Windows Security.
- Select Device security.
- Open Security processor details.
- Select Security processor troubleshooting.
- Choose Clear TPM only after completing the recovery preparation above.
- Follow the Windows prompts and restart the PC when required.
The exact options can vary by TPM, Windows configuration, and organization policy. Some systems may require confirmation during startup.
What Clearing the TPM Can Affect
The TPM stores or protects cryptographic material used by features such as BitLocker and Windows Hello. Resetting it can make previously protected keys unavailable. That can trigger BitLocker recovery, require sign-in credentials to be set up again, or affect applications that depend on TPM-backed certificates or keys.
Do Not Clear the TPM from Firmware Without a Reason
UEFI or BIOS interfaces can also contain TPM, Intel PTT, AMD fTPM, or security-device controls. Do not change or clear these settings casually. Firmware menus vary by manufacturer, and changing security settings without recovery information can create an access problem.
If You Are Preparing a PC for Someone Else
Use Microsoft’s supported Windows reset or organizational decommissioning process rather than treating TPM clearing by itself as a complete data-erasure procedure. A TPM reset does not replace securely removing personal files and accounts.
Windows 10 Support Status
Ordinary Windows 10 support ended October 14, 2025. If the PC can run Windows 11, moving to a supported operating system is preferable to relying indefinitely on an unsupported Windows 10 installation.
Summary
Clear the TPM only for a specific, trusted troubleshooting or ownership reason. Back up important data and verify your BitLocker recovery key first, then use Windows Security > Device security > Security processor details > Security processor troubleshooting when that option is available.