Skip to main content
Sign Out

Welcome to Dell

My Account
  • Place orders quickly and easily
  • View orders and track your shipping status
  • Enjoy members-only rewards and discounts
  • Create and access a list of your products
Sign In Create an Account Premier Sign In Partner Program Sign In
Contact Us

Your Dell.com Carts

Fingerprint Recognition Not Working

Fingerprint recognition technology offers a convenient way to secure your computer. However, sometimes you may experience issues where the fingerprint sensor fails to recognize your fingerprints. This article provides detailed steps to resolve these issues in Windows.

Fingerprint option on the Windows login screen

Understanding the Fingerprint Reader

The fingerprint sensor on your device is designed to enhance security by allowing you to login using your unique fingerprint. It simplifies the login process while keeping your data safe.

Common Symptoms of Fingerprint Recognition Issues

  • Fingerprint Not Recognized: The fingerprint sensor fails to recognize your enrolled fingerprints. The computer asks for your PIN or password instead of recognizing your fingerprint.
  • Error Messages: Messages such as "Fingerprint not recognized" or "This option is currently unavailable" may appear when you try to log in or access settings.
  • Intermittent Functionality: The fingerprint sensor occasionally recognizes your fingerprints but not consistently.

How to Resolve Fingerprint Recognition Issues

Cleaning the Fingerprint Sensor

A dirty fingerprint sensor can prevent it from reading your fingerprint accurately. Oil, dust, and smudges can create barriers that interfere with the sensor's functionality. To clean the sensor:

  1. Turn off your computer.
  2. Use a soft microfiber cloth to gently wipe the fingerprint sensor.
  3. Avoid using harsh chemicals; a slightly damp cloth with water is usually sufficient.
  4. Ensure the sensor is completely dry before attempting to use it again.

If this didn't help, proceed to the next step.

Ensuring Correct Placement

Incorrect finger placement during scanning can lead to recognition failures. Each fingerprint reader has a specific area where you finger should be placed for optimal reading.

Tips for placement:

  1. Place your finger flat against the sensor.
  2. Cover as much of the sensor surface as possible.

If the sensor doesn't recognize your fingerprint, proceed to the next step.

Enabling Fingerprint Reader in BIOS

It's important to ensure that the fingerprint reader is enabled in the BIOS settings. If it's not, it may prevent the operating system from recognizing the hardware.

  1. Restart your computer.
  2. Press the F2 key repeatedly until the BIOS setup screen appears.
  3. Locate the Enable Fingerprint Reader option under the Integrated Devices or Security section.
  4. Make sure the fingerprint reader is enabled.
  5. Save changes and exit the BIOS.

If the sensor is enabled in the BIOS and the issue persists, proceed to the next step.

Fingerprint reader enabled in the BIOS/UEFI

Updating Fingerprint Reader Drivers and BIOS

Outdated drivers and BIOS can often lead to functionality issues with hardware components like fingerprint readers. SupportAssist is Dell's automated tool that scans your Windows computer for driver and firmware updates, downloads, and installs them.

Using SupportAssist

  1. Search for SupportAssist in the Start menu and open the app.
  2. On the Home tab, select Update Software.
  3. Click Start to check for driver and BIOS updates.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation and restart your computer if prompted.

If you don't have SupportAssist, refer to our driver update guide for alternative methods to download and install Dell drivers.

If the issue isn't resolved, proceed to the next step.

Check for updates using SupportAssist

Checking for Windows Updates

Keeping your operating system updated ensures you have the latest features and fixes. To check for Windows updates:

  1. Go to Start > Settings > Windows Update. Open Windows Update settings.
  2. Select Check for updates and install the available updates.

Check your fingerprint reader after the update. If it doesn't work, proceed to the next step.

Check for updates in Windows settings

Reinstalling Fingerprint Sensor Drivers

Corrupted drivers may cause the fingerprint sensor to malfunction. Reinstalling the drivers often helps resolve functionality issues. To reinstall the drivers:

  1. Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand Biometric devices.
  3. Right-click on your fingerprint sensor and select Uninstall device.
  4. Restart your computer.
  5. Windows automatically reinstalls the necessary drivers.

Uninstall fingerprint drivers in Device Manager

Removing and Enrolling Your Fingerprint

If your fingerprint reader is still not working correctly, remove and register your fingerprint again.

  1. Go to Start > Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options. Open Windows Sign-in options.
  2. Under Fingerprint recognition, click on Remove next to your existing fingerprints.
  3. Click on Set up, then select Get started.
  4. Enter your PIN when prompted and follow the on-screen instructions to re-enroll your fingerprints.

This process helps reset any corrupted data associated with your fingerprints.

Set up fingerprint option in Windows settings

Running Dell Fingerprint Reader Test

Dell computers come with built-in diagnostics tools to check for hardware-related problems, including the fingerprint reader.

  1. Go to the SupportAssist fingerprint reader test.
  2. Follow the on-screen instructions and respond when prompted.
  3. Once the diagnostic is complete, SupportAssist displays the results.
  4. If a hardware issue is detected, you may be guided to update drivers or contact Dell Technical Support for repair options based on your device's warranty status.

If the test passes and the issue isn't resolved, try some additional steps to resolve fingerprint problems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some answers to common questions that users ask about fingerprint sensors or fingerprint issues.

1. What should I do if my fingerprint option is missing?

  • Check if your device supports a fingerprint reader.
  • Ensure the fingerprint reader is enabled in the BIOS.
  • Ensure all drivers are updated.

2. Why does my laptop say, "This option is currently unavailable"?

3. Can I use multiple fingerprints?

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

4. Is there a specific way to scan my finger?

  • Ensure you place your finger flat and cover as much of the sensor as possible.

5. Can environmental factors affect recognition?

  • Yes, moisture or extreme temperatures can impact sensor performance.

6. What happens if I can't enroll my fingerprint?

  • Try using a different finger to enroll.
  • Clean the fingerprint sensor and follow the steps in this article to troubleshoot fingerprint problems.

7. What if my computer doesn't recognize my fingerprint after a Windows Update?

  • Check and install the latest drivers.
  • Remove and enroll your fingerprint.

8. Will resetting Windows affect my saved fingerprints?

  • Yes, resetting will remove all saved data including fingerprints; you'll need to set them up again.

9. Can I use an external fingerprint reader?

  • Yes, if your device doesn't have an integrated fingerprint reader, use an external fingerprint reader.
  • Make sure it's compatible with Windows Hello.
  • Devices such as Dell MS819 mouse come with a built-in fingerprint reader that's compatible with Windows Hello.

10. What if none of the troubleshooting steps work?