How to Set Up and Use Windows Hello for Business on Windows 11 for Passwordless Sign-In

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to Set Up and Use Windows Hello for Business on Windows 11 for Passwordless Sign-In. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

Windows Hello for Business allows you to sign into your Windows 11 device using facial recognition, a fingerprint, or a PIN instead of a traditional password. This provides faster access to your company laptop and improves security by using credentials tied to your specific hardware. This guide walks Brisbane small business employees through setting up and using Windows Hello on Windows 11.

Before You Begin

Ensure your device meets the following requirements:

• Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education edition
• A Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD) joined device managed by your organisation
• An infrared (IR) camera for facial recognition or a fingerprint reader for biometric sign-in
• An active internet connection to sync with your company account

Setting Up Windows Hello

1. Select the Start button, then choose Settings.
2. In the left sidebar, select Accounts.
3. Click on Sign-in options.
4. Under Ways to sign in, choose one of the following:
   • Facial recognition (Windows Hello) — requires an IR camera
   • Fingerprint recognition (Windows Hello) — requires a fingerprint reader
   • PIN (Windows Hello) — available on all devices
5. Click Set up beneath your chosen method.
6. Select Next and verify your identity by entering your current Microsoft account password when prompted.
7. Follow the on-screen prompts to scan your face, register your fingerprint, or create a secure PIN.
8. Once complete, your chosen method will appear as Configured under Sign-in options.

Using Windows Hello to Sign In

Signing In with Facial Recognition or Fingerprint

1. Wake your device from sleep or restart it.
2. On the lock screen, look at the camera or place your registered finger on the reader.
3. Windows will verify your identity and sign you in automatically.

Signing In with a PIN

1. Wake your device or restart it.
2. On the sign-in screen, select your user account.
3. Enter your Windows Hello PIN when prompted.
4. Press Enter or select the arrow button to sign in.

Managing or Removing Windows Hello

1. Open Settings and go to Accounts > Sign-in options.
2. Select the Windows Hello method you want to manage.
3. To change your settings, click Settings or Improve recognition.
4. To remove the method entirely, click Remove and confirm your choice.

Troubleshooting

Windows Hello Option Is Missing or Greyed Out

• Ensure your device is connected to the internet and signed in with your organisational account.
• Restart your device and check Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options again.
• Contact your IT administrator to confirm that Windows Hello for Business is enabled for your organisation.

Facial Recognition or Fingerprint Not Working

• Make sure the camera lens or fingerprint reader is clean and unobstructed.
• For facial recognition, ensure you are in a well-lit area and looking directly at the camera.
• Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options and select Improve recognition to re-scan your face or fingerprint.

Forgotten PIN

If you forget your Windows Hello PIN, select I forgot my PIN on the sign-in screen and follow the prompts to verify your identity and create a new one. You can also reset your Windows login password if needed.

Still Having Issues?