How to set up and manage Windows 11 Dynamic Lock to automatically lock your PC when you step away

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to set up and manage Windows 11 Dynamic Lock to automatically lock your PC when you step away. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

Windows 11 Dynamic Lock is a security feature that automatically locks your computer when a paired Bluetooth device, such as your mobile phone, moves out of range. This is particularly useful for small business employees and home office users who step away from their desks and want to ensure their workstation remains secure without manually locking it every time.

Requirements

• A Windows 11 PC with Bluetooth enabled
• A compatible smartphone with Bluetooth enabled
• The phone paired to the PC via Bluetooth
• A user account with a password or PIN set

Step 1: Pair your phone via Bluetooth

1. On your Windows 11 PC, select Start > Settings.
2. Select Bluetooth & devices from the left-hand menu.
3. Ensure the Bluetooth toggle is switched to On.
4. Select Add device, then choose Bluetooth.
5. On your phone, make sure Bluetooth is enabled and the device is discoverable.
6. Select your phone from the list on the PC.
7. Confirm the pairing code matches on both devices, then select Connect or Pair.

Step 2: Enable Dynamic Lock

1. Open Settings and select Accounts from the left-hand menu.
2. Select Sign-in options.
3. Scroll down to the Dynamic lock section.
4. Tick the checkbox labelled Allow Windows to automatically lock your device when you're away.

Step 3: Test Dynamic Lock

1. With your phone paired and Dynamic Lock enabled, take your phone with you and move out of Bluetooth range (approximately 10 metres, depending on obstacles and interference).
2. Wait roughly 30 to 60 seconds for Windows to detect the device is out of range.
3. Return to your PC and confirm it has locked.
4. Sign back in using your usual method.

Managing Dynamic Lock

To disable Dynamic Lock

1. Open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
2. Under Dynamic lock, untick Allow Windows to automatically lock your device when you're away.

To remove a paired phone

1. Open Settings > Bluetooth & devices.
2. Find your phone in the list of paired devices.
3. Select the three dots (...) next to the device and choose Remove device.
4. Confirm by selecting Yes.

Troubleshooting

Dynamic Lock is not locking the PC

• Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on both the PC and the phone.
• Confirm the phone is paired and connected, not just paired.
• Move further away from the PC; being too close may keep the device within range.
• Restart the PC and re-test.
• Check that your user account has a password or PIN configured; Dynamic Lock requires a sign-in method to function.

Dynamic Lock locks too soon or too late

• Bluetooth signal strength can be affected by walls, furniture, and interference from other wireless devices.
• There is no user-configurable distance threshold in Windows 11; timing depends on your hardware and environment.
• Try repositioning your PC or phone to achieve more consistent detection.

Dynamic Lock option is missing

• Verify your Windows 11 installation is up to date via Settings > Windows Update.
• Confirm your PC has a built-in or external Bluetooth adapter.

If you continue to experience issues with Dynamic Lock or need assistance with your Windows login, you can reset your Windows login password or Open a Ticket for support from 220 Internet Services.

Still Having Issues?