How to set up Windows Hello
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Tested on
- Windows 11, Version 24H2
- You will need
- Windows 11 compatible PC, Biometric hardware or account password
Step by step
Open Windows Sign-in options
Click the Start button and select Settings. Navigate to Accounts in the left sidebar, then click on Sign-in options to view your available authentication methods.
Note: Ensure your device is fully updated to see the latest security features.Create a Windows Hello PIN
Select PIN (Windows Hello) from the list. Click the Set up button and enter your current user account password to verify your identity.
Define PIN requirements
Enter a new PIN in the box, then re-enter it in the confirmation box. Enable the Include letters and symbols checkbox if you require a more complex, non-numeric password.
Note: A complex PIN significantly increases security against unauthorized access.Configure Facial Recognition or Fingerprint
Return to the Sign-in options menu. Select Facial recognition (Windows Hello) or Fingerprint recognition (Windows Hello) based on your hardware capabilities.
Note: If your device hardware is incompatible, these options will appear as unavailable.Complete biometric registration
Click the Set up button. Follow the on-screen instructions to scan your face or fingerprint, ensuring your sensor remains clean and your face is properly positioned within the camera frame.
Note: Registration may require multiple passes to ensure accuracy under varying lighting conditions.Test the new authentication method
Press Win + L to lock your computer. Verify that the login screen prompts for your biometric input or PIN, confirming the setup is successful.
Note: Win + L