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Setting Up Windows Hello: PIN, Fingerprint, or Face Recognition

Windows Hello is a cutting-edge feature in Windows 11 that provides a more personal and secure way to access your device. By utilizing biometric authentication methods such as a PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition, Windows Hello enhances your security while simplifying the login process. This guide provides instructions for the setup process for each method and outline hardware requirements needed for fingerprint and facial recognition.

Windows login screen showing fingerprint, PIN, and face recognition icons

What You Need for Windows Hello

Before we begin the setup process, it's essential to ensure your device meets the necessary hardware requirements for Windows Hello:

  • Fingerprint Reader: Your device must have a compatible fingerprint reader. Many modern Dell laptops feature a fingerprint reader integrated into the power button.
  • Face Recognition: For facial recognition, your device needs an infrared (IR) camera. Many modern Dell laptops come equipped with this feature. If you're using a monitor, models like the Dell C2422HE and U3224KB have integrated IR webcams that work seamlessly with Windows Hello.

If you're unsure if your laptop supports these features, check your laptop's specifications in the user manual.

Setting Up a PIN (Windows Hello)

A PIN is a simple numeric code that serves as an additional layer of security. Here's how to set it up in Windows:

  1. Go to Start > Settings > Accounts.
  2. Click on the Sign-in options from the left sidebar. Open Windows sign-in options setting.
  3. Under the Ways to sign in section, click on PIN (Windows Hello), and then click on the Set up button.
  4. Confirm your account password when prompted.
  5. Follow the instructions to create a new PIN (at least four digits). You can also choose to include letters and symbols for added security.
  6. Re-enter your PIN to confirm it.

Once complete, you can use this PIN to sign in to your device quickly.

PIN set up in Windows settings

Setting Up Fingerprint Recognition (Windows Hello)

Using your fingerprint is one of the most convenient ways to log in. Here's how to set it up.

  1. Go to Start > Settings > Accounts.
  2. Click on the Sign-in options from the left sidebar. Open Windows sign-in options setting.
  3. Click on Fingerprint recognition (Windows Hello) and then click the Set up button.
  4. Click on the Get started button and confirm your account password when prompted.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to scan your fingerprint multiple times from different angles until it's fully registered.

After completing these steps, you can unlock your device using your fingerprint.

Can't sign-in using your fingerprint reader? Check out our guide to resolve fingerprint issues.

Fingerprint recognition set up in Windows

Setting Up Face Recognition

Facial recognition offers a seamless way to log into your device without any physical interaction. Here's how to set it up:

  1. Go to Start > Settings > Accounts.
  2. Click on the Sign-in options from the left sidebar. Open Windows sign-in options setting.
  3. Click on Facial recognition (Windows Hello) and then click the Set up button.
  4. Click on the Get started button and confirm your account password when prompted.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to position your face in front of the camera until it captures your facial features.

Once set up, simply looking at your camera will unlock your device.

Can't sign-in with facial recognition? Check our guide to fix face recognition issues.

Facial recognition set up in Windows

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some answers to common questions that users ask about setting up Windows Hello sign in methods such as PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition.

1. What is Windows Hello?

  • Windows Hello is a biometric authentication feature in Windows 11 that allows users to sign in using a PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition.

2. Do I need a Microsoft account for Windows Hello?

  • Yes, you need to be signed in with a Microsoft or enterprise account to use Windows Hello.

3. Can I use Windows Hello without internet access?

  • Yes, once set up, you can use Windows Hello offline since it relies on local authentication methods.

4. What if my device doesn't support Windows Hello?

  • You may need to upgrade your device or purchase external devices like fingerprint reader or IR cameras that support Windows Hello.

5. Can I use multiple fingerprints for authentication?

  • Yes, you can register multiple fingerprints for added convenience.

6. Can I use a password instead of a PIN, fingerprint, or face recognition?

  • Yes, you can continue to use traditional passwords.

7. How do I know if my device supports Windows Hello?

  • Go to Start > Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options. Open Windows sign-in option settings.
  • Unsupported features are grayed out.
  • To verify if your device has compatible hardware such as fingerprint reader or an IR webcam, check your device's specifications in the user manual.

8. What should I do if my fingerprint isn't recognized?

9. What should I do if my face isn't recognized?

10. What should I do if my IR camera isn't working?

  • Check and install the latest drivers.
  • Ensure that any privacy shutters are open.
  • Check for operating system updates.
  • If the issue persists, check out our guide to resolve webcam issues.

11. What happens if I forget my PIN?

  • You can reset your PIN through the sign-in options by verifying your identity with your Microsoft account password.

12. Is there a way to bypass Windows Hello?

  • Yes, you can always fall back on using your password or PIN if biometric methods fail.