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.
Cannot change PIN or PIN does not work in Windows 11/10
To rectify this situation, create a system restore point first and then log into your Windows 10 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 are given access to the folder and you open it, press Ctrl+A to select everything, and delete all the contents of this folder.
This will repair your PIN, by resetting things to default.
Now open the Windows 10 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 face any problem with your PIN – even when you cannot change your PIN or if PIN does not show up as a sign-in option on your login screen.
Related read: PIN and Picture Password logon not offered.
How do I login if my PIN is not working?
The PIN is one of the ways to sign in to your account, and if it doesn’t work, you can switch to the standard method of password. Both local and Microsoft account offers you to sign in using a password. We also recommend adding additional methods to unlock your accounts, such as a fingerprint sensor or Bluetooth, so you don’t get blocked out of your account.
How do I remove a PIN from Windows?
If the PIN method doesn’t work well for you, you can permanently remove it as one of the sign-in methods from your accounts section. Go to Settings > Accounts> Asignin. Locate PIN, and click to remove it. Make sure to confirm the action.
