Windows 11 PIN Not Working or Not Available Fix
Share this post
Windows 11 PIN Not Working or Not Available Fix
You turn on the PC and Windows 11 says "Your PIN is no longer available due to a change to the security settings on this device", or "Something happened and your PIN isn't available", or it simply won't accept a PIN you're sure is right. Your files are fine - Windows just can't use the stored PIN anymore. The fix is to sign in another way and create a new PIN.
This guide is for your own PC. If you've forgotten your password as well, see forgot your Windows 11 password - how to reset it.
Why a PIN Stops Working
A Windows Hello PIN is tied to this device and is protected by the PC's security chip (TPM). It can stop working when:
- a BIOS/UEFI firmware update or a TPM reset changed the security hardware settings;
- a Windows update or repair damaged the stored sign-in data;
- your Microsoft account password was changed or the account needs attention;
- the PC is managed by work or school and a policy changed.
Quick Checks First
- Num Lock: if your PIN has digits and you type them on the number pad, make sure Num Lock is on.
- Keyboard layout: a different layout can change what some keys type. The layout code (e.g. ENG US) is shown on the sign-in screen - select it to switch.
- Letters and symbols: if you ticked Include letters and symbols when you created the PIN, it's case-sensitive.
- Restart the PC once. Sometimes the sign-in service simply hadn't started.
Step 1: Sign In With Your Password
- On the sign-in screen, select Sign-in options.
- Choose the key icon (password).
- Enter your Microsoft account password (the one for Outlook.com, Hotmail or your Microsoft account) or your local account password.
If you don't know that password either, select I forgot my password (Microsoft account) or answer your security questions (local account).
Step 2: Use "I Forgot My PIN" (Microsoft Account)
If you sign in with a Microsoft account, the sign-in screen shows I forgot my PIN under the PIN box.
- Select I forgot my PIN.
- Confirm your Microsoft account password and the security code Microsoft sends you.
- Choose Continue and set a new PIN.
Step 3: Remove and Set Up the PIN Again
Once you're signed in with your password:
- Open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
- Select PIN (Windows Hello).
- Select Remove, confirm, and enter your account password.
- Restart the PC.
- Go back to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > PIN (Windows Hello) and select Set up to create a new PIN.
Step 4: Remove Is Greyed Out?
On the same Sign-in options page, under Additional settings, find For improved security, only allow Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts on this device. When it's on, Windows won't let you remove the PIN. Turn it off, then go back to Step 3. You can turn it on again after the new PIN works.
Step 5: Check Your Microsoft Account
If sign-in keeps failing, sign in at account.microsoft.com from another device and check for security alerts, a password reset request or a locked account. Fix those first, then set up the PIN again.
Step 6: Install Updates and Repair Windows
- Check Settings > Windows Update and install everything pending, then restart.
- If the PIN setup itself fails with an error, repair Windows system files with DISM and SFC - see how to run SFC and DISM to repair Windows 11.
Work or School PC?
On a PC managed by an organization, Windows Hello rules come from the organization. If the PIN keeps asking to be reset or setup is blocked, contact your IT team - don't try to work around the policy.
Keep Your Account Safe
A PIN only protects this PC. Your Microsoft account still needs a strong password and two-step verification - see how to turn on two-factor authentication for Google, Microsoft and Apple.
Still Locked Out?
If you can't sign in with the PIN, the password or a recovery option, the last resort is resetting the PC from the sign-in screen (hold Shift, select Power > Restart, then Troubleshoot > Reset this PC). Back up first if you can: depending on the option you choose, a reset can remove your apps and files. If you have BitLocker device encryption, you'll also need your recovery key, which is stored in your Microsoft account.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does 'Your PIN is no longer available' mean?
Windows can no longer use the PIN it stored for this device, often after a security change such as a firmware update or a TPM reset. Sign in with your password, then set up a new PIN.
How do I sign in if my PIN doesn't work?
On the sign-in screen select Sign-in options and choose the password (key) icon. Use your Microsoft account password or your local account password.
Why is the Remove button for my PIN greyed out?
The setting 'For improved security, only allow Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts on this device' is on. Turn it off in Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options, and Remove becomes available.
Is a Windows Hello PIN safer than a password?
Microsoft designed the PIN to work only on the device where you set it up, so a stolen PIN can't be used from another computer the way a stolen password can.
Comments