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

  1. 30 sec

    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.
  2. 1 min

    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.

  3. 1 min

    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.
  4. 1 min

    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.
  5. 1 min

    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.
  6. 30 sec

    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