Trusted Platform Module (TPM) is a hardware-based security chip that stores a user’s complete information, including their credentials, biometrics, smart cards, passwords, emails, encrypted keys, and certificates. TPM secures user privacy by verifying and ensuring that only the owner can access the system. However, clearing TPM will result in the complete loss of data since the chip’s data storage is reset. This article discusses the significance of TPM, how it works, and how to clear TPM safely.
How TPM Works in Devices
TPM is a computer security system that stores all the sensitive data of a user. The system increases and secures user privacy against malware attacks by verifying the user’s identity. For example, if you have a face lock password over your device, TPM will only unlock your device when it verifies your identity. TPM prevents unauthorized access to your sensitive data, ensuring that no one can tamper with your stored information.
What Happens When You Delete TPM?
Deleting TPM will result in the complete loss of your data since the chip stores all the sensitive data. However, deleting TPM may be necessary when selling your device to prevent unauthorized access to your credentials. It is not safe to erase TPM under normal circumstances since it deletes all the informative and sensitive data with just one click. It is essential to have a backup plan in place to recover your lost data.
Is it Safe to Erase TPM?
Erasing TPM is only safe in specific situations such as when selling your device to prevent unauthorized access to your credentials. Erasing TPM under normal circumstances may result in the complete loss of your informative data. It is essential to have a backup plan to recover your data before erasing TPM.
What Happens If You Don’t Delete TPM Before Selling the Laptop?
If you don’t delete TPM before selling your laptop, all your data will be easily accessible to the new owner, compromising your privacy and data. It is necessary to delete TPM before selling your laptop to prevent unauthorized access to your data.
Clearing TPM from Windows 11
Clearing TPM from Windows 11 is easy. First, open the Windows Security Panel from Settings and select Device Security. Then, tap on Security Process and click Troubleshooting. Next, select Clear TPM and restart your PC.
Clearing TPM from Windows 10
Clearing TPM from Windows 10 can be challenging. First, go to the settings and click on Windows Security, then select Device Security. Tap over the Clear TPM option, and a Hello Window will appear. After all the confirmations, click Start, and your TPM will be removed entirely from your device.
Clearing TPM in the BIOS of HP Devices
Clearing TPM in the BIOS of HP Devices varies from computer to computer. To clear TPM from HP proDesk 600G1, type tpm.msc after opening the security panel from settings. Check on Bit-Locker and restart your PC. Then, press ESC and F10 simultaneously, fill in the startup menu, and all the data stored in TPM will be cleared.
Does Erasing TPM Reset the Computer?
Erasing TPM will not reset your computer. It will only remove the authorization to access the applications and stored information.
Will Clearing TPM Remove Windows Also?
Clearing TPM will not cause anything to your device except for data loss. You will re-initialize your windows again, but your apps and installations will not be affected.
Conclusion
Clearing TPM will result in the complete loss of data, but it is necessary when selling your device to prevent unauthorized access to your credentials. It is important to have a backup or recovery plan to restore your data. Follow the given guidelines to clear TPM safely.