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How to Set Up a Windows Hello PIN

Applies toWindows 10Windows 11
6 min fix Updated 8 Mar 2026 · 6 months ago

By , 10+ years in IT support and helpdesk How these guides are checked

Quick Answer

Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options, click PIN (Windows Hello), select Set up, enter your current password to verify your identity, and create a new PIN.

Checked against Microsoft Learn - Windows release health, Microsoft Learn - end of support and retirement and between 5 Aug 2026 and 12 Sep 2026. Nothing published in that period has been linked to this guide.

Summary ​

A Windows Hello PIN lets you sign in to your computer with a short numeric code instead of typing your full password. The PIN is tied to your specific device, so even if someone learns it, they cannot use it on another computer.

Before You Start ​

  • Your device must be running Windows 10 or Windows 11.
  • Make sure you know your current account password.

Instructions ​

1. Set Up a PIN ​

Create your Windows Hello PIN through the Settings app.

  1. Open Settings (press Windows key + I).
  2. Go to Accounts > Sign-in options.
  3. Click PIN (Windows Hello).
  4. Click Set up.
  5. Windows will ask you to verify your identity. Enter your account password (or approve an MFA prompt if required). If you are not sure how to approve that prompt, see How to Use the Microsoft Authenticator App.
  6. The Set up a PIN window appears.
  7. Enter a New PIN and Confirm PIN.
  8. Click OK. Your PIN is now active.

Tip: To use letters and symbols in your PIN (not only numbers), check the Include letters and symbols box before entering your PIN. This creates a stronger PIN that is still faster to type than a full password.

2. Sign In with Your PIN ​

Once configured, your lock screen will default to the PIN entry field.

  1. At the Windows lock screen or sign-in screen, the PIN pad will appear automatically.
  2. Type your PIN and press Enter.
  3. If you prefer to use your password instead, click Sign-in options below the PIN field and select the key icon (Password).

3. Change or Remove Your PIN ​

Update or remove your PIN at any time from Settings.

To change your PIN:

  1. Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > PIN (Windows Hello).
  2. Click Change PIN.
  3. Enter your Current PIN, then your New PIN and Confirm PIN.
  4. Click OK.

To remove your PIN:

  1. Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > PIN (Windows Hello).
  2. Click Remove.
  3. Click Remove again to confirm.
  4. Enter your account password to verify your identity.

Troubleshooting ​

INFO

A Windows Hello PIN only works on the device where it was created. If you use multiple computers, you will need to set up a separate PIN on each one. To understand why this happens, see Understanding Windows Sign-In Methods.

Symptom / ErrorPotential CauseSolution
"Something went wrong" during PIN setupCorrupt PIN containerOpen Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > PIN > click I forgot my PIN to reset, then set up again.
PIN option not visibleGroup Policy restrictionAsk IT whether PIN sign-in is switched off for your account and whether an exception can be made — say why you need one, such as signing in dozens of times a day.
PIN not accepted after password changePIN out of syncRemove the PIN and set it up again with the new password.

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Frequently asked questions

Is a 4-digit PIN really safer than a complex password?
Yes. A password can be stolen via a data breach and used anywhere in the world. A Windows Hello PIN is tied to the physical security chip inside your specific laptop. It is useless to a hacker on the internet.
Can I include letters in my PIN?
Yes. When creating or changing your PIN, check the box that says 'Include letters and symbols' below the entry fields to create an alphanumeric PIN.