How to Fix Windows Hello Not Working

Step by step

1. 1 min

   Check for system updates

   Open Settings by pressing Windows + I. Navigate to Windows Update and click Check for updates to ensure your security patches and biometric drivers are current.

   Note: A restart is mandatory after installing any pending system updates.
2. 2 min

   Reset Windows Hello biometrics

   Open File Explorer and navigate to C:\Windows\System32\WinBioDatabase. Delete the contents of this folder to clear existing biometric data. This forces Windows to create a fresh identity profile upon the next setup.

   Note: You must have administrative privileges to modify this directory.
3. 2 min

   Reinstall biometric drivers

   Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager. Expand Biometric devices, right-click your sensor (e.g., Windows Hello Face or Fingerprint), and select Uninstall device. Restart your computer to trigger an automatic driver reinstallation.

   Note: If the device is missing, select Action > Scan for hardware changes in the top menu.
4. 1 min

   Re-enable sign-in options

   Navigate to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options. Locate your preferred method, click Remove, and then click Set up to register your face or fingerprint again from scratch.

   Note: Ensure your PIN is active, as it serves as the fallback authentication method for Windows Hello.
5. 1 min

   Repair system files

   Press Windows + S, type cmd, and select Run as administrator. Execute sfc /scannow and press Enter. Allow the tool to repair any corrupted system files that may be interfering with the Windows Hello service.

   Note: The process will automatically repair identified issues; do not close the terminal until the verification reaches 100%.