How to Enable or Disable Windows Hello Fingerprint

This article explains how to add or remove the ability to use Windows Hello Fingerprint as a sign-in option and UAC credential provider in Windows 11.

Why Use Windows Hello Fingerprint?

Windows gives you many ways to sign into your device. One of the safest ways is Windows Hello. It lets you sign in using a PIN, facial recognition, fingerprint, passkey, and more.

You can also use a security key. This is a small hardware device—usually a tiny USB key—that you can use instead of your username and password to sign in online.

Using a password is less secure than these options.

When Might You Want to Disable Fingerprint Sign-In?

Although Windows Hello fingerprint technology is safer, it may not work in all situations. Some workplaces or organizations might turn it off as a sign-in option and UAC credential provider. This stops people from using their fingerprint to sign in to Windows on the Sign-in screen and a UAC credential provider.

There are several reasons why you might want to turn fingerprint sign-in on or off:

• Your fingerprint reader is not working properly
• You want to use a different sign-in method
• You want to add extra security to your device
• Your device does not support fingerprint sign-in
• Your workplace requires a standard sign-in process for all users

How to Add or Remove Fingerprint as a Sign-In Option

If you want to stop users from using their fingerprints to sign in or want all employees to use the same sign-in method, you can remove fingerprint as an option. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Open the Registry Editor

First, open Windows Registry Editor.

Step 2: Navigate to the Registry Key

Go to this location in the registry:

Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Authentication\Credential Providers\{BEC09223-B018-416D-A0AC-523971B639F5}

Step 3: Edit the Disabled Setting

Next, find the Disabled (REG_DWORD) item on the right side of the window. Double-click it to open it. Then, type 1 to disable fingerprint sign-in for all users.

To allow all users to use their fingerprints again, simply delete the Disabled item.

If you do not see the Disabled item, right-click on an empty area. Choose to create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value. Then, type Disabled as the name.

⚠️ Note: This task requires administrator privileges.

Step 4: Restart Your Computer

You may need to restart your computer to apply the changes.

Summary

Enabling or disabling Windows Hello Fingerprint gives you control over how people sign in to Windows. By using the Windows Registry, you can turn this feature on or off based on your needs. Think about security, whether your device supports it, and what your users prefer before making this change. For more information, check the Microsoft support page about Windows sign-in options and account protection.

Frequently Asked Questions