Adding TPM 2.0 Module to Asrock Rack E3C256D2I Motherboard for Windows 11

Introduction

In this article, we will discuss how to add a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 to the ASRock Rack E3C256D2I motherboard for use with Windows 11. TPM is a crucial security feature that helps protect your system against unauthorized access and malware attacks. With Windows 11, TPM 2.0 is now a requirement for some security features, such as BitLocker encryption and Virtual Secure Mode (VSM).

TPM 2.0 Overview

TPM is a dedicated microcontroller that securely stores cryptographic keys and passwords. It is designed to protect the system's boot process and ensure the integrity of the operating system and its applications. TPM 2.0 is the latest version of TPM, which offers several improvements over its predecessor, TPM 1.2, such as:

• Increased storage capacity
• Improved security algorithms
• Support for remote attestation

ASRock Rack E3C256D2I Motherboard Overview

The ASRock Rack E3C256D2I is a single-socket server motherboard based on the Intel Xeon D-1500 series processor. It supports Intel Optane Memory, which provides faster response times and improved application performance. The motherboard also comes with several built-in security features, such as:

• Intel vPro Technology
• Intel Trusted Platform Technology (Intel TPM 2.0)
• Intel Active Management Technology (Intel AMT)

Adding TPM 2.0 Module

To add a TPM 2.0 module to the ASRock Rack E3C256D2I motherboard, follow these steps:

Step 1: Check Motherboard Compatibility

Before purchasing a TPM 2.0 module, make sure that it is compatible with the ASRock Rack E3C256D2I motherboard. You can check the motherboard's specifications on the ASRock Rack website:

Look for the "TPM" section in the specifications and ensure that it supports TPM 2.0.

Step 2: Purchase a TPM 2.0 Module

Once you have confirmed that the motherboard supports TPM 2.0, you can purchase a compatible TPM 2.0 module. Some popular options include:

• Intel SGX TPM 2.0
• Infineon SLB9672 TPM 2.0
• Western Digital WD10SMF-XKEC

Step 3: Install the TPM 2.0 Module

To install the TPM 2.0 module, follow the manufacturer's instructions. Generally, the process involves:

1. Connecting the module to the motherboard using the appropriate cable
2. Powering on the system and entering the BIOS setup
3. Locating the TPM setting in the BIOS and enabling it
4. Saving and exiting the BIOS setup

Step 4: Enable TPM in Windows 11

Once the TPM module is installed, you can enable it in Windows 11:

1. Press the Windows key + I to open Settings
2. Click on "Privacy & security"
3. Click on "Security features" in the left pane
4. Scroll down to "Platform protections" and click on "Windows Security settings"
5. Click on "Device encryption"
6. Toggle on "Use BitLocker to encrypt my drives"
7. Select the drive you want to encrypt and click "Manage BitLocker"
8. Click on "Turn on BitLocker"
9. Follow the prompts to create a recovery key and set up a password

In this article, we discussed how to add a TPM 2.0 module to the ASRock Rack E3C256D2I motherboard for use with Windows 11. We covered the basics of TPM 2.0 and the ASRock Rack E3C256D2I motherboard and provided step-by-step instructions for installing the module. For more information, check out the following resources:

• Microsoft TPM Overview
• Intel TPM