If you find that your PIN does not work & will not let you sign in to Windows 11/10, then see this post. It will also help you if you cannot change the PIN. It is quite possible that your PIN file may have got corrupted or that the PIN may not have been preserved after an upgrade.
PIN not working on Windows 11
To rectify this situation, create a system restore point first and then log into your Windows computer using an alternative sign-in option, and then do the following:
Create a system restore point. Then open File Explorer and browse to the following location –
C:\Windows\ServiceProfiles\LocalService\AppData\Local\Microsoft
Click on Ngc folder to open it. You will be denied permission to access this folder. Click on the ‘security tab‘ link to open the Properties box of this folder. You will now have to take Full Ownership of this Folder.
Read: What are Effective Permissions for Files and Folders in Windows.
Ultimate Windows Tweaker will let you add the Take Ownership of Files and Folders easily to the Windows context menu. You will find it under the Context Menu section > Desktop Context Menu 2 tab.
Once you have access to the folder and open it, press Ctrl+A to select everything, then delete its contents.
This will repair your PIN, by resetting things to default.
Now open the Windows Settings app > Accounts settings > Sign-in Options.
Under PIN, click on Add a PIN. Enter your new PIN and click OK.
Finally, restart your computer and see. You will be able to sign-in with your new PIN.
You can use this procedure when you encounter any problems with your PIN—even if you cannot change it or it does not appear as a sign-in option on your login screen.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you need any more assistance.
Related read: PIN and Picture Password logon not offered.
What to do if your computer won’t let you put in your PIN?
If your computer won’t let you put in your PIN in Windows 11/10, try these suggestions: , here are some steps you can try:
- Use the I Forgot My PIN option
- Sign in with your Microsoft Account Password
- Use Command Prompt in Advanced Startup Options. Restart your computer while holding the Shift key and click on Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt. Open the Registry Editor and go to
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\PasswordLess\Devic`. Double-click on DevicePasswordLessBuildVersion and change its value from 2 to 0. Restart your computer and see.
Read: List of PIN Error Codes on Windows 11 with solutions
How do I login if my PIN is not working?
PIN is one way to sign in to your account, and if it doesn’t work, you can switch to the standard password method. Both local and Microsoft accounts offer the option to sign in with a password. We also recommend adding additional methods to unlock your accounts, such as a fingerprint sensor or Bluetooth, so you don’t get locked out.
Related read: Unable to add or use PIN sign-in option in Windows.
How do I remove a PIN from Windows?
If the PIN method doesn’t work well for you, you can permanently remove it as a sign-in method in your accounts section. Go to Settings > Accounts> Sign in options. Locate PIN, and click to remove it. Make sure to confirm the action.
