How to Enable or Disable PIN for Projecting in Windows 11
This guide explains how to manage the Require PIN for projecting feature in Windows 11. Wireless display technology, often called Miracast, allows you to mirror your phone or another computer screen to your PC. Using a PIN adds a layer of security to this process.
Why do this?
You may want to use a PIN to keep your computer secure. It prevents unauthorized devices from connecting to your PC without your permission. By requiring a PIN, you ensure that only people you trust can mirror their content to your screen.
What happens when done?
Once you select your preferred setting, your computer will enforce that security rule whenever a device attempts to mirror its screen to your Windows 11 PC. If you choose ‘Always’, you will be prompted for a code every single time a connection is initiated.
Prerequisites: Checking the Wireless Display Feature
Before you can project, you must ensure the Wireless Display feature is installed. This is a standard Windows 11 component.
- Open Settings and go to Apps > Optional features.
- Click View features next to Add an optional feature.
- Search for Wireless Display. If it is not in the list, check your installed features list.
How to Change PIN Settings via Settings App
Note: This requires administrative privileges on your user account.
- Open the Settings app by pressing Windows key + I.
- Click on System on the left sidebar.
- Select Projecting to this PC.
- Under Require PIN for pairing, choose Never, First Time, or Always.
Advanced Configuration: Registry Editor
Warning: Modifying the registry incorrectly can cause system issues. This requires administrative privileges.
- Press Windows key + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
- Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\MiracastReceiver
- Look for a DWORD value named RequirePinForPairing.
- Set the value to 0 for Never, 1 for First Time, or 2 for Always.
Summary
You have learned how to manage the Require PIN for projecting setting. By using these steps, you can control who mirrors their screen to your PC. Always ensure your system is updated to maintain the best compatibility with wireless display standards.
Why is my PIN not appearing when projecting?
If the PIN does not appear, ensure your network profile is set to Private rather than Public. Also, verify that the Wireless Display optional feature is correctly installed and that your firewall is not blocking Miracast traffic. Restarting both the host PC and the projecting device often resolves temporary handshake errors.
Is the projection PIN the same as my Windows login PIN?
No, the projection PIN is a temporary, randomly generated code used only for the wireless display pairing process. It is completely separate from your Windows user account login PIN or password. It is designed specifically to prevent nearby unauthorized devices from accidentally or intentionally connecting to your monitor.
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