How to Automate PC Security with Dynamic Lock

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
Windows 11 Build 22631
You will need
Smartphone with Bluetooth enabled, PC with Bluetooth capability

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Pair your smartphone to your PC

    Open the Settings app on your Windows PC and navigate to Bluetooth & devices. Click Add device and select Bluetooth to detect your smartphone. Follow the on-screen prompts to establish a secure pairing connection between both devices.

    Note: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on both your PC and your smartphone before starting.
  2. 30 sec

    Access sign-in options

    Inside the Settings app, click Accounts in the left-hand navigation pane. Select Sign-in options from the right-hand menu to view your security configuration settings.

  3. 15 sec

    Locate the Dynamic Lock menu

    Scroll down to the Additional settings section. Click the chevron icon next to Dynamic lock to expand the submenu and view the configuration toggle.

  4. 15 sec

    Activate the locking feature

    Check the box labeled Allow Windows to automatically lock your device when you're away. Windows will now monitor the signal strength of your paired smartphone to determine your proximity.

    Note: If the checkbox is grayed out, ensure your phone is actively connected to the PC via Bluetooth.
  5. 1 min

    Verify the connection

    Walk away from your PC while keeping your smartphone in your pocket. The PC will lock automatically within approximately 30 to 60 seconds after the Bluetooth signal falls below the threshold.

    Note: Test this while no unsaved work is open to ensure you understand the latency period.