Forgot your Windows 11 PIN? How to reset it

2 min read · 6 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Short answer

On the sign-in screen, click I forgot my PIN under the PIN field, confirm your Microsoft account with its password and a security code, and choose a new PIN. If the link is missing, click Sign-in options, sign in with your password, and reset the PIN in Settings.

The Windows Hello PIN is stored on the PC and belongs to that one device. Resetting it does not change your Microsoft account password, and it deletes nothing.

These steps are for Windows 11. The pictures are simplified diagrams of the Settings window, not screenshots, so colours and spacing on your PC look a little different.

Step by step

  1. Click I forgot my PIN

    The link is below the PIN field on the sign-in screen. It is offered for Microsoft accounts. The PC must be online: use the network icon at the bottom right of the sign-in screen to connect to Wi-Fi.

  2. Confirm that it is you

    Enter the password of your Microsoft account. Windows then sends a security code to your email address or phone, or asks for approval in the Authenticator app.

  3. Choose a new PIN

    Enter the new PIN twice and confirm. You are signed in straight away.

  4. If the link is not there: use the password

    Click Sign-in options below the field and choose the key symbol to enter your password instead. This is the way for local accounts, which cannot reset a PIN from the sign-in screen.

  5. – ▢ ✕SettingsSystemBluetooth & devicesNetwork & internetAppsAccountsTime & languageAccessibilityWindows UpdateSign-in optionsFacial recognitionFingerprint recognitionPIN (Windows Hello)Security key

    Reset the PIN in Settings

    Once you are signed in, open Settings, Accounts, Sign-in options. Click PIN (Windows Hello) and then I forgot my PIN. Confirm your account and set a new PIN.

  6. To change a PIN you still know

    In the same place, click Change PIN, enter the current PIN and then the new one.

Good to know

If you have forgotten the Microsoft account password as well, reset it first on another device at account.microsoft.com, then come back to the PC.

On a work or school PC, the organisation may control PIN rules and resets. Ask your IT support.

Fingerprint or face sign-in spares you typing the PIN every day: how to set up fingerprint or face sign-in on Windows 11.

In short: I forgot my PIN on the sign-in screen, confirm the Microsoft account, new PIN. Or sign in with the password and reset under Settings, Accounts, Sign-in options.

Sources
  • Microsoft Support: Change or reset your PIN in Windows

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