How to enable automatic device locking feature in Windows 11
Dynamic Lock is a built-in Windows 11 feature that automatically locks your PC when you walk away from your desk. It uses Bluetooth to track the connection between your computer and your smartphone, securing the screen moments after your phone moves out of range.
This tool saves you from having to press the Win+L shortcut every time you stand up. To set it up, you just need a PC with built-in Bluetooth or a working USB Bluetooth adapter paired to your phone.
Open Settings , select Accounts, choose Sign-in options, scroll to the Dynamic lock section, and check the box labeled Allow Windows to automatically lock your device when you are away. This proximity detection feature pairs your smartphone to your computer using Bluetooth and locks the operating system when the connection drops.
Pairing Your Smartphone via Bluetooth
You need an active Bluetooth connection on both devices with visibility turned on in your phone settings to get them to talk to each other properly before setting up automated security features.
- Open Settings .
Windows 11 Start menu with Settings gear icon highlighted. - Select Bluetooth & devices.
Windows Settings menu highlighting the Bluetooth and devices option for printers - Turn on the Bluetooth toggle switch if it is currently disabled.
- Click Add device.
Windows 11 Bluetooth and devices settings with add device option. - Choose Bluetooth from the Add a device window.
- Select your smartphone from the list of discovered hardware and follow the on-screen prompts to confirm the matching PIN on both screens.
Enabling Dynamic Lock in Settings
Enabling Dynamic Lock in your Windows 11 settings tells your computer to lock automatically when you walk away with your phone. You need a paired smartphone connected via Bluetooth before you can turn on this automatic device locking feature to secure your screen whenever you leave your desk.
- Open Settings .
- Select Accounts.
- Select Sign-in options.
Settings › Accounts › Sign-in options - Scroll down to the Dynamic lock section.
Windows 11 Dynamic Lock settings screen showing pairing options. - Check the box labeled “Allow Windows to automatically lock your device when you’re away”.
Troubleshooting Bluetooth Proximity Issues
Troubleshooting Bluetooth proximity issues fixes the problem where your Windows 11 PC fails to lock when you walk away or locks up too early. Signal interference from thick walls, nearby routers, or outdated wireless drivers often disrupts the connection your computer needs to track your phone.
Verify that your phone stays connected by checking the Bluetooth settings panel on your PC. If your computer locks while you are still sitting at your desk, the Bluetooth signal is likely too weak or unstable. Move your computer closer to your seating area, remove physical obstructions between the PC and your phone, or update your Bluetooth adapter drivers through Device Manager.
Configuring Alternative Sign-In Protections
Since automatic locking only protects your PC when you leave, you need a quick backup method like a PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition to get back in.
- Open Settings.
- Select Accounts.
- Select Sign-in options.
- Choose Windows Hello Face, Windows Hello Fingerprint, or a secure PIN, then follow the configuration steps on your screen.
What to do next
Your computer will now automatically secure itself whenever you walk away with your paired smartphone. You can explore additional security settings in the Accounts menu or configure power and sleep timeouts to complement your new proximity lock behavior.
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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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