A PIN is a convenient and quick way to log into Windows 10, especially if you use Windows Hello. But sometimes it can get in the way. For example, if you forget the number combination or simply prefer to use a classic Microsoft account password.
The good news is that disabling the PIN code request is not difficult at all. It can be done in literally a minute in the system settings. You don't need to reinstall Windows or perform any complicated actions in the Control Panel.
In this article, we will explain in simple terms how to remove the PIN code and return to using a regular password to log into your account. By following these steps, you can easily restore the usual method of authorization.
How to remove a PIN code in Windows 10
To remove the PIN code in Windows 10, follow these steps.
Step 1: Open the application “Settings”, the fastest way is to press two keys simultaneously — the Windows logo key and the letter I (Win + I).
Step 2: Go to the settings group “Accounts”
Step 3: On the left, click on the section “Sign-in options” or “Login Options” (depends on the installed build).
Step 4: In the section “Manage device sign-in” select the option “PIN for Windows Hello.”.
Important note: If you are not using the latest Windows 10 update, version 2004, the settings may look slightly different, but the steps are still applicable.
Step 5: Click the “Delete”, then click it again.
Eif the button is not active, scroll down the page “Login Options” scroll down to the section “Require Windows Hello for Microsoft accounts” and move the slider to the “Off” position (see image below). After that, close and reopen the app, “Settings” continue with Step 4.
Step 6: Confirm your current password and click the button “OK”.
After completing these steps, you will no longer be able to log in with a PIN, and you will need to use your account password to access the Windows 10 desktop.
If the PIN code for logging into Windows 10 has become inconvenient, you can quickly disable it — just go to your account settings, find the login section, and delete the PIN you set. After that, the system will go back to using your account password, and you won't be able to enter a PIN anymore. It's a simple and safe process that won't affect any other data on your computer.
How to delete a PIN if the “Delete” button is missing or inactive
If for some reason Windows 10 does not accept your PIN code and the delete PIN code button is not active, a PowerShell script will help.
Important: When using this method, you will need to enter your login password instead of your PIN.
- Open PowerShell as an administrator.
- Copy and paste the following commands at once and press Enter:
The command will clear the contents of the folderC:\Windows\ServiceProfiles\LocalService\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Ngc, which in turn will delete the old PIN code.
- Restart your device, press “Sign-in”, You will need to enter your password and confirm your actions using your phone or the backup email address you provided when creating your Microsoft account.
- And click on“Create a PIN”you can create a new PIN or simply close it by clicking on the cross in the upper right corner and, after logging in, configure “Sign-in options” in Windows settings.
That's it, you're done!
Enable or disable the Windows Hello PIN using the Local Group Policy Editor.
Alternatively, you can enable or disable Windows Hello PIN using the Group Policy Editor. Here's how to do it:
Note: Windows 10 Home users cannot use this method because their devices do not have built-in group policies.
- Open gpedit.msc (see how).
- In the window that opens, go to the next item:
Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → System → Logon
- Go to the right pane and double-click “Enable login with a convenient PIN”.
- In the circle to go to the window with network information. Tap the button “Disabled”, then press “OK”, to save the changes.
- Go to Settings and disable the Windows Hello PIN (if you have one).
That's it, now you can close Group Policy and restart your computer for the changes to take effect the next time you log in.
Tip: If you want to re-enable the Windows Hello PIN, use the policy “Enable login with a convenient PIN code” and instead of “Disabled” select “Enabled” or “Not set”.
So, as you can see, removing the PIN request when logging into Windows 10 is a fairly simple task. You can either disable it completely by returning to using a regular account password, or set up automatic login if your computer is in a secure location.
The choice of method depends on your security and convenience needs. If you work from home and want to speed up system startup as much as possible, then automatic login is the way to go. If you just don't like PIN codes but want to keep password protection, then the first method is ideal.
Regardless of your choice, you now know how to manage this setting. We hope these tips have helped you make your computer experience a little more comfortable and faster.
