On Windows 11, in addition to signing in with your Microsoft or local account password, you can also configure one of the Windows Hello authentication methods for a more secure experience.
Windows Hello is a feature that allows you to use biometric authentication (such as fingerprint or face recognition) or a PIN instead of a traditional password.
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How to set up PIN authentication on Windows 11On Windows 11, the system will prompt you to set up at least one of the Windows Hello authentication methods ailable, depending on the device's capabilities. The most common method is the PIN method since it doesn't require special biometric hardware.
If your computer doesn't he a PIN, you can create one using the steps below. You can always change or remove it completely.
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By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.Create PINTo create a PIN for a Windows 11 account, use these steps:
Open Settings.Click on Accounts.Click the Sign-in options page from the right side.
Once you complete the steps, the next time you log in, the system will default to the PIN authentication method instead of a password.
Change PINTo change the PIN on your account, use these steps:
Open Settings.Click on Accounts.Click the Sign-in options page from the right side.
After you complete the steps, you can start using the new PIN in the login.
Remove PINTo remove the PIN authentication, use these steps:
Open Settings.Click on Accounts.Click the Sign-in options page from the right side.
Once you complete the steps, the system will default to the next ailable authentication method, the password, if you don't he another Windows Hello feature enabled.
How to set up Fingerprint authentication on Windows 11You can configure the Fingerprint authentication method if you he a device such as a keyboard or a fingerprint reader.
This authentication method requires a fingerprint reader. Usually, this hardware comes built on certain laptops and keyboards, and you can also purchase a USB fingerprint reader.
Create FingerprintTo configure Windows 11 to sign in with a fingerprint, use these steps:
Open Settings.Click on Accounts.Click the Sign-in options page from the right side.
After you complete the steps, you can proceed to use your fingerprint to sign in to Windows 11.
Add FingerprintTo register additional fingerprints, use these steps.
Open Settings.Click on Accounts.Click the Sign-in options page from the right side.
Once you complete the steps, you can sign in using another finger.
Remove FingerprintTo remove the Fingerprint feature on Windows 11, use these steps:
Open Settings.Click on Accounts.Click the Sign-in options page from the right side.
After you complete the steps, you can continue to sign in to your account using another Windows Hello method or password.
How to set up Face authentication on Windows 11Windows 11 also includes support for signing in with your face if the computer has a camera that supports Windows Hello.
This authentication method requires a camera supporting Windows Hello. Usually, devices like a Surface Pro and Surface Laptop come with this capability built-in, but you can find external cameras like the Logitech BRIO webcam that comes with facial recognition support.
Create FaceTo set up a Face authentication method, use these steps:
Open Settings.Click on Accounts.Click the Sign-in options page from the right side.
Once you complete the steps, you can sign in to Windows 11 by just looking at the camera on your computer.
Improve recognitionTo improve the accuracy of the face recognition, use these steps:
Open Settings.Click on Accounts.Click the Sign-in options page from the right side.
After you complete the steps, the Windows Hello Face method should sign you in more accurately.
Remove FaceTo remove the Windows Hello Face authentication from your computer, use these steps:
Open Settings.Click on Accounts.Click the Sign-in options page from the right side.
Once you complete the steps, you can continue to access your Windows 11 account using a password or another Windows Hello authentication.
More resourcesFor more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:
Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to knowWindows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to knowToday's Best Windows 11 deals

