To clear the TPM in Windows 10, open Windows Security, click Device security, then Security processor details > Security processor troubleshooting. Choose a reason, click Clear TPM, and then Clear and restart. Before you do this, back up your BitLocker recovery key and any data protected by the TPM, because clearing it deletes the keys stored on the chip.
Clearing the TPM resets it to factory defaults. It’s usually only needed when you’re selling a PC, reinstalling Windows, or troubleshooting a TPM error. Here’s how to do it safely.
What happens when you clear the TPM
- BitLocker: If the drive is encrypted and you haven’t saved the recovery key, you could lose access to your data.
- Windows Hello: Your PIN, fingerprint, and face sign-in need to be set up again.
- Virtual smart cards, certificates, and passkeys stored in the TPM are deleted.
- Your files, apps, and Windows are not deleted.
Before you clear the TPM
- Save your BitLocker recovery key. Find it at account.microsoft.com/devices/recoverykey, or in Control Panel > BitLocker Drive Encryption > Back up your recovery key.
- Suspend BitLocker. In Control Panel > BitLocker Drive Encryption, click Suspend protection. It turns back on after the restart.
- Sign in with an administrator account and make sure you know your password, since your PIN will stop working.
How to clear the TPM with Windows Security
- Click Start, type Windows Security, and open it.
- Click Device security.
- Under Security processor, click Security processor details.
- Click Security processor troubleshooting.
- Choose a reason from the menu, then click Clear TPM.
- Click Clear and restart. Your PC may ask you to press a key during startup to confirm.
How to clear the TPM with the TPM Management tool
- Press Windows key + R, type tpm.msc, and press Enter.
- Under Actions on the right, click Clear TPM.
- Follow the prompts and restart.
How to clear the TPM from UEFI firmware
If Windows won’t start, you can clear the TPM from your PC’s firmware. Restart, press your BIOS key (often F2, F10, or Delete), and look under Security for an option like Clear TPM, TPM Clear, or Reset PTT/fTPM. Menu names vary by maker.
After clearing the TPM
- Windows re-initializes the TPM automatically after restarting.
- Set up your Windows Hello PIN again in Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
- If BitLocker asks for a recovery key, enter the one you saved.
- Check the status: press Windows key + R, type tpm.msc, and confirm it says “The TPM is ready for use.”
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to clear the TPM?
Yes, if you’ve saved your BitLocker recovery key and don’t rely on TPM-only certificates. It doesn’t delete your files.
Why is Clear TPM grayed out?
You may not be an administrator, or your organization manages the TPM. On work PCs, ask your IT department.
Should I clear the TPM before selling my PC?
Yes. It’s a good step along with a full Reset this PC with “Remove everything.”
Does clearing the TPM fix Windows 11 compatibility?
No. Windows 11 needs TPM 2.0 turned on. If PC Health Check says TPM is missing, enable it in firmware instead.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.