To disable PIN in Windows 11, open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options, select PIN (Windows Hello), then choose Remove. Confirm the choice and enter your account password. If Remove is greyed out, turn off the Windows Hello-only setting on the same page first.
If you prefer to sign in with a password, Windows 11 lets you remove the device PIN in a few steps. Your files, apps, and Windows account stay in place; only the sign-in method changes.
Use this guide when you want to remove a PIN, when the Remove button is unavailable, or when you need to switch to a password from the sign-in screen.
Before you remove your PIN
Make sure you know the password for the account on this PC. With a Microsoft account, it is the password for that Microsoft account. With a local account, it is the password created for this computer.
Do not remove the PIN until you can sign in with your account password. Windows will use that password after the PIN is removed.
How to disable PIN in Windows 11
- Press
Windows + Ito open Settings. - Select Accounts, then Sign-in options.
- Open PIN (Windows Hello).
- Select Remove, then select Remove again to confirm.
- Enter your account password when Windows asks.
At your next sign-in, Windows will ask for your password instead of the PIN. You can add a new PIN later from the same Sign-in options page.
If the Remove button is greyed out
Windows can require Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts. When that setting is on, it may prevent PIN removal.
- Stay in Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
- Turn off For improved security, only allow Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts on this device.
- Open PIN (Windows Hello) again and select Remove.
- Restart the PC if the option does not become available immediately.
If the setting is missing or controlled by your organization, the PC may be managed by work or school policy. Contact the administrator instead of trying to bypass it.
What changes after you remove the PIN
Removing a PIN does not delete your Windows account, files, applications, or settings. It simply makes the account password your normal sign-in method.
You can also choose Sign-in options on the lock screen and select the password icon when you know the password but do not remember the PIN. For a Microsoft account, the password is the one used for Microsoft services; for a local account, it works only on this PC.
PIN or password: which should you use?
A Windows Hello PIN is tied to one device, while an account password can be used more broadly. Microsoft’s Windows Hello guidance explains that the PIN is associated with one device. That device-only design can be a security advantage, so remove the PIN only if a password better fits how you use the PC.
Face and fingerprint sign-in may also need a PIN as a backup. If you use either method, expect Windows to ask you to set up a PIN again before using it.
Use these practical Windows 11 security steps after choosing the sign-in method that suits you.
If you cannot remove or use the PIN
If you forgot the PIN but know the password, use Sign-in options on the lock screen and choose the password icon. If you need to reset the PIN, select I forgot my PIN and follow Windows verification prompts. A work or school device can have sign-in rules set by its administrator, so ask IT for help if the options are locked.
Frequently asked questions
How do I disable PIN in Windows 11?
Open Settings, choose Accounts and Sign-in options, select PIN (Windows Hello), then choose Remove. Confirm the removal and enter your account password.
Why is the Remove PIN button greyed out?
Windows Hello-only sign-in may be required for Microsoft accounts on that device. Turn off that setting in Sign-in options, then return to PIN (Windows Hello) and choose Remove.
Does removing the PIN delete my files or account?
No. It only changes the way you sign in. Your account, files, apps, and settings remain unchanged.
Can I add a Windows 11 PIN again later?
Yes. Go to Settings, Accounts, Sign-in options, choose PIN (Windows Hello), and select Set up.
