Windows Hello: Sign In with PIN, Fingerprint or Face

By Ammar Aslam · Updated September 29, 2026 · 3 min read

Typing a long password every time you open your laptop is tiring, and many people respond by using weak passwords. Windows Hello offers a faster and more secure alternative: sign in with a PIN, your fingerprint or your face.

Why a PIN is safer than a password

It sounds strange, but a Windows Hello PIN is tied to your specific device. If someone steals your PIN, they can't use it to sign in to your Microsoft account from another computer. Your password, by contrast, works anywhere.

Set up a PIN

Go to Settings → Accounts → Sign-in options.
Click PIN (Windows Hello) → Set up.
Verify your account password.
Enter a PIN. Tick Include letters and symbols for extra strength. Avoid simple PINs like 1234 or your birth year.

Set up fingerprint

If your laptop has a fingerprint reader, often built into the power button or near the touchpad:

In Sign-in options, click Fingerprint recognition → Set up.
Follow the prompts to scan your finger several times from different angles.
Add a second finger in case one is injured or dirty.

Set up face recognition

This needs a special infrared (IR) camera, found on many mid-range and premium laptops. Choose Facial recognition in Sign-in options and look at the camera while it learns your face. Choose Improve recognition if you wear glasses sometimes.

Option greyed out?

Fingerprint and face options appear only if your hardware supports them.
Update drivers for the fingerprint reader or camera from your manufacturer.
USB fingerprint readers are affordable for desktops.

Dynamic Lock

In Sign-in options, Dynamic lock locks your PC automatically when your paired Bluetooth phone moves away. It's useful in offices, but also build the habit of pressing Windows + L when you step away.

Forgot your PIN?

On the sign-in screen, click I forgot my PIN and verify your Microsoft account to set a new one.

Troubleshooting Windows Hello

Fingerprint not recognised

Clean the sensor and make sure your finger is dry.
Remove and re-add your fingerprint, scanning edges and tips of the finger.
Update the fingerprint driver from Device Manager (Biometric devices) or your laptop maker's site.
In Power settings, prevent Windows from turning off the fingerprint device to save power.

"Something went wrong" when setting up a PIN

This can happen when the PIN storage folder is corrupted. Removing the PIN and setting it up again usually works. If that fails, sign out and back in, install updates, and try again. Businesses may manage PIN settings centrally, so contact IT on work devices.

Face recognition fails in bright light

Very strong sunlight behind you can confuse the infrared camera. Choose Improve recognition in the same lighting conditions where it struggles.

Keeping sign-in secure

Windows Hello makes signing in easier, but a few habits keep your PC secure:

Lock your PC every time you walk away with Windows + L.
Set a screen timeout so the PC locks automatically after a few minutes of inactivity: Settings → Accounts → Sign-in options → If you've been away, when should Windows require you to sign in again?
Use a Microsoft account with 2FA, so even if someone learns your password, they can't access your account online. See two-factor authentication.
Turn on device encryption (Settings → Privacy & security → Device encryption) so data stays protected if the laptop is stolen. Save the recovery key in your Microsoft account.

Frequently asked questions

Is my fingerprint stored online?

No. Windows Hello biometric data stays on your device and is not sent to Microsoft.

Can I still use my password?

Yes, click "Sign-in options" on the lock screen to choose another method.

Ammar Aslam
Ammar writes clear, practical tech guides that help everyday users fix problems, stay safe online and get more from their devices.