How to Fix Windows 11 When the PIN Sign-In Option is Missing or Not Working

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to Fix Windows 11 When the PIN Sign-In Option is Missing or Not Working. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

Windows Hello PIN sign-in provides a fast and secure way to access your Windows 11 device. If the PIN option is missing from the login screen, greyed out in Settings, or returning an error when you attempt to use it, you may be unable to log in efficiently. This guide walks you through restoring PIN functionality on your business or home office PC.

Quick Fix Steps

1. Restart your computer and try signing in with your PIN again.
2. Ensure you are connected to the internet, as Windows may need to sync your credentials with your Microsoft account.
3. Try signing in with your account password instead of the PIN to verify your account is active.
4. Check for pending Windows updates by going to Settings > Windows Update and selecting Check for updates.

Detailed Instructions

Check Sign-In Options in Settings

If you can log in using your password, verify that Windows Hello PIN is configured correctly.

1. Click the Start button and select Settings.
2. In the left sidebar, click Accounts.
3. Select Sign-in options from the list.
4. Look for the PIN (Windows Hello) section.
5. If the option is available, click Set up or Change and follow the prompts to recreate your PIN.

If you do not see the PIN option at all, your organisation may have a Group Policy preventing Windows Hello. Contact your IT administrator or Open a Ticket for assistance.

Remove and Recreate Your PIN

If your PIN exists but is not working, removing it and setting it up again often resolves authentication errors.

1. Open Settings and go to Accounts > Sign-in options.
2. Under PIN (Windows Hello), click Remove.
3. Confirm your identity by entering your account password when prompted.
4. Click Remove again to confirm.
5. Once removed, click Set up under the PIN section.
6. Enter your account password to verify your identity.
7. Enter and confirm your new PIN.

Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter

Corrupted system files or failed updates can break Windows Hello components.

1. Open Settings and select System.
2. Click Troubleshoot on the right side.
3. Select Other troubleshooters.
4. Find Windows Update in the list and click Run.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions and restart your computer when finished.

Check the TPM Status

Windows Hello relies on the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) to store PIN credentials securely. If the TPM is not ready, PIN sign-in may fail.

1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type tpm.msc and press Enter.
3. Check the Status section. It should read The TPM is ready for use.
4. If the status shows an error or the TPM is not found, restart your computer and check the status again.

Do not attempt to clear or reset the TPM unless instructed by a qualified technician. Clearing the TPM can remove saved PINs and encrypted data.

Troubleshooting

PIN Option is Missing Entirely

• Microsoft account required: Windows Hello PIN typically requires a Microsoft account. If you are using a local account, switch to a Microsoft account or set up a password instead.
• Domain-joined devices: If your PC is joined to a business domain, your organisation's security policy may disable PIN sign-in. Contact your system administrator.
• Windows edition: Some Windows Hello features are unavailable on Windows 11 Home in specific configurations. Ensure your system is fully updated.

PIN Not Accepted at Login Screen

• Click Sign-in options on the login screen and choose the password icon to log in with your account password.
• Ensure Caps Lock is off, as PINs are case-sensitive if they include letters.
• If you recently changed your Microsoft account password online, sign in with your old password once to sync the credentials, then update your PIN.

Error Code 0x80090030 or Similar

This error usually indicates a problem with the Windows Hello service or the NGC folder.

1. Press Windows key + R, type %windir%\ServiceProfiles\LocalService\AppData\Local\Microsoft\NGC, and press Enter.
2. If you cannot access the folder, you may need to take ownership of it. Right-click the folder, select Properties > Security > Advanced, change the owner to your user account, and grant full control. Then restart your computer.
3. Restart your computer and attempt to set up your PIN again through Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.

If none of these steps restore your PIN sign-in option, there may be a deeper issue with your user profile or system files. Open a Ticket with our Brisbane support team for further assistance.

Related articles:

• Managing User Accounts in Windows 11
• Windows 11 Security Best Practices
• Troubleshooting Windows 11 Update Issues

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