Windows

Set up Facial Recognition Sign-in for Your Account in Windows 11

Written by

Richard

Mar 13, 2026 Updated Aug 13, 2026 2 min read

How to Set up Facial Recognition Sign-in for Your Account in Windows 11

Windows Hello facial recognition lets you sign in to your Windows 11 computer with your face instead of typing a password. You need a Windows Hello PIN (Personal Identification Number) and a compatible infrared (IR) camera or external hardware accessory to set it up.

Your PIN stays on your PC as a backup sign-in method if the camera does not work. This setup keeps your computer secure because your facial data never leaves your device.

⚡ Quick Answer

Open Settings , navigate to Accounts, then Sign-in options. Select Facial recognition (Windows Hello) and click Set up. Follow the on-screen prompts to scan your face with your camera after entering your PIN.

How to Set Up Facial Recognition

Step 1: Open Settings on your PC by pressing the Windows key + I on your keyboard.

Step 2: Click Accounts in the menu on the left side, then click Sign-in options on the right.

Click here to open Sign-in options directly.

Windows 11 Settings Accounts page showing Sign-in options — Windows 11 account sign-in options tile for wake settings.

Step 3: Under Ways to sign in, find Facial recognition (Windows Hello) and click it to open more options.

Step 4: Click the Set up button next to “Use your face to sign in to Windows, apps, and services.”

Step 5: Click Get started on the next screen.

Windows Hello facial recognition setup welcome screen — Windows Hello setup screen prompting to get started with fingerprint sign-in.

Step 6: Enter the account PIN to confirm identity.

Windows Hello PIN entry screen for facial recognition setup — Windows 11 screen to enter account PIN for fingerprint setup.

Step 7: Position the face centrally and look directly at the camera until Windows Hello finishes configuration.

Step 8: When "All set" appears on screen, click Close.

Optional Step 9: Multiple Windows Hello cameras connected to the system allow for selecting a preferred device from the drop-down menu, a feature introduced in Windows 11 build 25324 and later.

Windows 11 selecting infrared camera for facial recognition

The Settings window can now be closed.

Why Use Facial Recognition?

Better Security: Your face is unique, so it makes your sign-in safer than just a password.
Quick and Easy: Just look at your PC to sign in fast.
Your PIN is Safe: The PIN you use is tied to your device only.
More Ways to Sign In: You can also use fingerprint or PIN if you prefer.
Works with Your Camera: Uses your PC’s built-in or an external infrared camera.
Help If Needed: If you have problems, check the official support links below.

Helpful Links

Enjoy signing in to the Windows 11 PC with a glance!

Was this guide helpful?

Tags: #Windows 11

Was this helpful?

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.

2871 articles → Twitter