Windows Hello

Overview

Windows Hello is a biometric authentication feature in Windows 10 and later operating system that provides a secure, password-free way to unlock devices and access applications.  It leverages facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, or PIN codes to enhance security and streamline the client experience.  Windows Hello is particularly relevant in a university setting where diverse clients need efficient, secure access to personal or shared devices, reducing reliance on traditional passwords and supporting cybersecurity best practices. 

The below Procedures will outline the different methods of enrolling in Windows Hello such as enrollment of PIN, facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, security key, and picture password.

Procedures

NOTE: You will need to set up PIN (Windows Hello) first, as the PIN method will be your machine's primary authentication to configure additional Windows Hello enrollment such as facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, etc.  

1.  Click Start

2.  Type Sign-in Options

[System settings Accounts-Sign-in Options screen]

3.  Click on preferred sign-in method (Please see below sections for more information for each Windows Hello enrollment method)

PIN (Windows Hello)

1.  While in Sign-in options, click PIN (Windows Hello)

2.  At the window, Use Windows Hello with your Account, click Ok.

[Windows Hello - PIN]

3.  Complete Microsoft 365 login with RCSUserID@rpi.edu and password credentials.

4.  Complete Duo verified push.

5.  At the Set up a PIN window, enter a six digit PIN number.  Once new PIN is entered, click Ok.

If you need to reset your pin please scroll to the bottom of this article.

Facial Recognition

1.  While in Sign-in options, click Facial Recognition

2.  Click Get started

[Windows Hello Facial Recognition window]

3.  Follow on-screen prompts of looking directly at your camera or webcam to finish configuration steps of Windows Hello.

4.  Once you receive the prompt All set!, facial recognition has been successfully configured for your machine.

[Facial Recognition - All set window]

Fingerprint Recognition

1.  While in Sign-in options, click Fingerprint recognition (Windows Hello)

2.  In the Windows Hello setup window, follow the prompts of lifting and placing your finger

[Windows Hello - Fingerprint Recognition]

3.  After your machine states All set, you can add additional fingers for fingerprint recognition. 

Security Key

1.  While in Sign-in options, click Security Key.

2. In the Windows Hello setup window, insert a security key (ex. Yubikey) into your machine's USB port.

3.  Follow the prompts to register your security key for Windows Hello.

Picture Password (touch screen devices only)

1.  While in Sign-in options, click Picture password.

2.  Click Add

3.  In Picture password window, click Choose Picture

[Windows Hello - Picture password]

4.  Click Use this picture.

5.  In the Set up your gestures window, draw three gestures with your machine's touch screen (circles, straight lines, and taps) to generate your picture password

[Windows Hello - Picture password gestures prompt]

6.  Once you receive the prompt You're all Set!, your picture password has now been configured for Windows Hello

Change or Reset Your PIN in Windows

A PIN is a user-defined set of numbers, or a combination of numbers and letters, that allows you to sign in to Windows instead of a password.  Your PIN is securely stored on your device, it isn’t transmitted anywhere, and it isn’t stored on a server. This makes it more secure than a traditional password.

If you want to change your PIN, or need to reset it, you have different options.

1. If you have a Microsoft account not for local accounts you can reset your PIN when you are not signed in:
   • Look below the PIN text box.  If the option I forgot my PIN is available, select it and follow the instructions to reset your PIN. If there are multiple accounts on the device, choose the one you need to reset. This option is only available for Microsoft accounts, not for local accounts
   • If the option I forgot my PIN​​​​​​​ is not available, you must sign in with your password and then reset the PIN
2. Change or reset your PIN when you're already signed in:
   • In the windows search bar search on:   Sign in options
   • Select PIN (Windows Hello) > Change PIN and then follow the instructions. You must enter your old PIN in order to change to a new one
   • If you forgot your PIN, select I forgot my PIN and follow the directions to verify your account and create a new one

If you need assistance, please submit a Support Request.

References/Links 

None at this time.

Last Reviewed:   11-Mar-2025