How to Change Your PIN in Windows 11

This easy guide will help you change the PIN you use to sign into your Windows 11 computer.

What is a PIN and Why Use It?

Windows Hello is a feature in Windows 11 that lets you sign in quickly and securely using a PIN, your face, or your fingerprint. Setting up a PIN is required if you want to use fingerprint or facial recognition, but you can also just use a PIN on its own.

A PIN is safer than a password because:

• It’s only for your device. If someone steals your PIN, they can’t use it on another device.
• It stays on your computer. Your PIN isn’t sent over the internet, so it can’t be intercepted by hackers.
• Your device keeps it extra safe. Windows uses a special chip (called TPM) to protect your PIN from being guessed or stolen.
• You can make it as simple or complex as you want. You can include numbers, letters, and symbols.
• It works with biometrics. You need a PIN as a backup in case fingerprint or face recognition doesn’t work.

Learn more about Windows Hello here: Windows Hello – Microsoft Support

How to Change Your PIN in Windows 11

1. Open Settings: Press Win + I on your keyboard.
2. Go to Accounts: Click Accounts from the left menu.
3. Choose Sign-in options: On the right side, click Sign-in options.
4. Find PIN (Windows Hello): Under Ways to sign in, click to expand PIN (Windows Hello).
5. Click Change PIN: Press the Change PIN button.
6. Enter your current PIN.
7. Type your new PIN: You can also check Include letters and symbols if you want a more complex PIN.
8. Confirm your new PIN by typing it again.
9. Click OK to save your new PIN.

Open Sign-in options settings

When you’re done, you can close the Settings window.

Why Change Your PIN?

• Keep your device safe: Changing your PIN regularly adds security.
• Make it easier to remember: Choose a new PIN that you find easier to recall but still secure.
• Update your security: If you think someone else knows your PIN, change it right away.

Quick Tips

• Make your PIN at least 6 characters long with a mix of numbers, letters, and symbols if possible.
• Never share your PIN with others.
• If you forget your PIN, you can reset it from the sign-in screen (you’ll need your Microsoft account password).

Helpful Links

• How to Change or Reset Your PIN – Microsoft Support
• Windows Sign-in Options – Microsoft Support
• Windows Hello PIN Errors and Troubleshooting