How to Add or Remove Passwod as Sign-in Options in Windows 11

Windows 11 lets you choose how you want to sign in to your computer. You can use a password, but there are safer ways to log in. You can use a PIN, your face, or your fingerprint. This technology is called Windows Hello.

Here are some popular ways to sign in:

• PIN (a short number code)
• Facial recognition (using your face)
• Fingerprint
• Passkey

You can also use a security key. This is a small USB device. You use it instead of typing your username and password when signing in on websites.

Using a password is still an option. But it’s less secure than the other methods. You can learn more about managing your password here.

Why change password sign-in options?

If you use a local account (an account stored only on your computer and not connected to Microsoft’s online services), you can turn off password sign-in. Here’s what happens:

• Passwords won’t be an option when logging in.
• Password prompts won’t appear when Windows asks for permission to make changes. These prompts are called UAC prompts.

People do this for two reasons. First, it can make the computer more secure. Only stronger sign-in methods will work. Second, it can make signing in faster and simpler.

On the other hand, you might want to keep passwords enabled. Do this if you or others can’t use other sign-in methods. For example, facial recognition or a PIN might not work for everyone.

How to add or remove passwords as a sign-in option

⚠️ IMPORTANT: Before turning off password sign-in, make sure you have set up another way to sign in. Use a PIN, face, or fingerprint. Otherwise, you could lock yourself out of your computer!

Here’s a simple guide to enable or disable passwords on your Windows 11 local account:

1. Open the Registry Editor:
   

   Press the Windows key + R together. Type regedit and press Enter. Accept any prompt that asks for permission.

   
   

   You can also read this guide on how to open Registry Editor: Open Registry Editor in Windows 11.

2. Go to this folder:
   

   Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\AuthenticationCredential Providers\{60b78e88-ead8-445c-9cfd-0b87f74ea6cd}

3. Find the setting called Disabled:
   

   On the right side, look for an item named Disabled. It should be a DWORD value.

4. Turn off passwords:
   

   Double-click Disabled. Change the value data to 1 and click OK. This will stop passwords from being used to sign in.

5. Turn on passwords:
   

   If you want to allow passwords again, just delete the Disabled item. Or set its value to 0.

6. If you don’t see Disabled:
   

   Right-click on a blank space in the right pane. Select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name it Disabled. Then set the value as described above.

After making changes, restart your computer. This makes sure the changes take effect.

More help

For official information from Microsoft, visit their page on Windows sign-in options and account protection.

Summary

• Windows Hello offers safer and easier ways to sign in. You can use PINs, face recognition, and fingerprints.
• Password sign-in is less secure. But it’s still available if you need it.
• You can turn off password sign-in for local accounts. Just change a setting in the Registry Editor.
• Always set up another sign-in method before disabling passwords. This helps you avoid getting locked out.