Windows Hello is a feature in Windows (version 10 and above) that allows you to sign in to your device without a password. Instead, you can use:
- Facial recognition (if your device has a camera),
- Fingerprint (if your device has a fingerprint reader),
- PIN (a simple number or a combination of characters and numbers that you set).
It’s fast and convenient. Your biometric data (face, fingerprint, or PIN) is stored locally on your device and used for secure sign-in.
What you need
- Your device must be running Windows 10 or 11 PRO/EDU edition
- You must be signed in with a work or school account (Microsoft Entra ID)
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA) must be enabled (e.g., Microsoft Authenticator or another method)
- TPM version 2.0 or higher is required (how to check)
Set up Windows Hello
- Open your account settings
- Click Start > Settings
- Go to Accounts > Sign-in options
- Select a sign-in method
In the Sign-in options section, you’ll see the following methods:
- Facial recognition (if your device has a compatible camera)
- Fingerprint recognition (if your device has a fingerprint sensor)
- PIN (always available)
Click “Set up” next to your preferred method and follow the on-screen instructions.
Identity verification
When setting up for the first time, you will be prompted to verify your identity using MFA.
If MFA is enabled, confirm your identity via Microsoft Authenticator.
Set up a PIN (required)
- After verification, you’ll be prompted to create a PIN
- Enter a four-digit or longer PIN
- Confirm the PIN and click OK
Tip: If you want a more complex PIN, check “Include letters and symbols”. The PIN can contain letters, not just numbers.
Set up biometrics
If your device has a fingerprint sensor or camera, you can configure biometric sign-in.
Fingerprint
- Click Fingerprint recognition (Windows Hello) > Set up
- Place your finger on the sensor and lift it repeatedly as prompted
- Once complete, confirm and save your settings
Facial recognition
- Click Facial recognition (Windows Hello) > Set up
- Position your face in front of the camera and follow the instructions
All set!
You can now sign in using Windows Hello instead of your password.
At the sign-in screen, simply use your PIN, fingerprint, or face recognition.