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Windows 🟡 Intermediate

How to Create a new security key PIN on Windows 11

Richard
Written by
Richard
Jul 10, 2026 Updated Aug 12, 2026 3 min read
How to Create a new security key PIN on Windows 11
How to Create a new security key PIN on Windows 11

A security key PIN on Windows 11 is a short secret code that protects your Microsoft account when you plug a physical security key into your PC. You need this PIN every time you sign in to your computer with the key.

You can set up a new PIN in less than two minutes through the Windows 11 Settings app . This helps you get back into your PC if you forget your old code or want to make your account safer.

⚡ Quick Answer

Open Settings , navigate to Accounts Sign-in options Security Key. Click Manage, connect your security key, and follow prompts to add a new PIN, confirming it by entering it twice.

Open Windows Settings

Open Windows Settings to begin. Click the Start button , usually found in the bottom-left corner of the screen. Select the gear icon to open the Settings window.

💡Tip
Pressing the Win and the ‘I’ key on the keyboard at the same time is a quick shortcut to open Settings.
Windows 11 Start menu with Settings gear icon highlighted.
Windows 11 Start menu with Settings gear icon highlighted.

Go to Accounts and Sign-in Options

Windows 11 security settings allow users to manage sign-in methods. Locate Accounts within the Settings window, marked by an icon resembling a person. Look for Sign-in options on the left side of the screen and click it to continue.

Windows 11 Sign-in options screen showing security settings.
Windows 11 Sign-in options screen showing security settings.

Find Your Security Key Settings

The Sign-in options screen appears. This screen lets you control how you log in to the computer. Scroll down to find Security Key. Click on the Security Key option.

Manage Your Security Key

A button labeled Manage appears under the Security Key section. Click this button. This opens the interface for setting up or changing the security key's PIN.

Windows 11 security key settings with Manage button highlighted.
Windows 11 security key settings with Manage button highlighted.

Connect Your Security Key

Connect the physical security key to the computer to create a new Windows 11 security key PIN. Plug in a USB security key or tap an NFC key against a compatible reader. Follow any prompts that appear on screen so Windows can recognize the security key.

Windows 11 security key settings to manage your PIN.
Windows 11 security key settings to manage your PIN.

Keep the physical security key handy before beginning the process of creating a new Windows 11 PIN. A physical security key is required to complete the PIN setup.

Add a New Security Key PIN

Find the Security Key PIN section to add a new Windows 11 security key PIN once Windows recognizes the hardware. Select the option to add a new PIN, then choose a secure code that is memorable. Type it again to confirm they match.

Type the new PIN a second time to verify its accuracy. Both entries must match.

Windows 11 security key setup screen for new PIN creation.
Windows 11 security key setup screen for new PIN creation.

Click OK after entering the PIN twice.

Confirmation

The Windows 11 security key updates with the new PIN, displaying a confirmation message. This confirms the new Windows 11 security key PIN is active and ready to use the next time you sign in with the security key.

Reference:

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/accounts-billing/work-school/set-up-a-security-key-as-your-verification-method

Summary

Open Settings, navigate to Accounts, select Sign-in options, and choose Security Key to create a new security key PIN on Windows 11. Click Manage, then connect the security key. Follow the prompts to add a new PIN, entering it twice for confirmation. The new PIN becomes active once finished.

What is the a1b2c3 phrase?

The phrase 'a1b2c3' is not a standard Windows or security term. It might function as a placeholder or example used in a specific context. Checking the original source provides more clues about its meaning.

How to get rid of security PIN on 🪟 Windows 11?

Users can remove a security key PIN in Windows 11 through Settings. Go to Accounts, then Sign-in options. Find the security key, select it, and choose to remove the PIN. Entering the current PIN may be required for confirmation.

What to do if I forgot my Windows security PIN?

Resetting the security key PIN for Windows 11 becomes necessary if it is forgotten. Go to Settings, open Accounts, and select Sign-in options. Choose the security key and look for an option to reset or change the PIN. Having the physical security key on hand is required.

Why is 🪟 Windows 11 asking for a security key?

Windows 11 prompts for the security key when configured as a sign-in method. This approach offers enhanced security compared to a standard password. Such prompts occur during login when using a physical security key.

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Tags: #Windows 11
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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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