A Windows Hello PIN is a device-specific sign-in credential. Changing it does not change your Microsoft account password.
- Open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
- Select PIN (Windows Hello).
- Choose Change PIN.
- Enter the current PIN, then enter and confirm the new PIN.
- Lock the PC and test the new PIN before relying on it.
If you forgot the current PIN
Use the supported I forgot my PIN recovery flow instead of repeatedly guessing. You may need your Microsoft account credentials or another identity-verification method.
Work PCs can enforce PIN rules
An organization can require minimum length, complexity, expiration, or Windows Hello for Business. If Windows rejects the new PIN, check workplace policy rather than trying to bypass it.
PIN versus password
The PIN is normally protected for use on that device. A Microsoft account password authenticates the online account and can be used elsewhere.
Before you finish
After completing the Change PIN on Windows 11 procedure, test the exact feature you changed and keep the original settings or source data available until the result is confirmed. If the behavior differs from the steps above, check the software version and device-specific documentation before making additional changes.
When the change option is unavailable
Windows Hello settings can be controlled by security policy, especially on work or school devices. A temporarily unavailable PIN service can also prevent changes. Restart the PC, confirm your account can reach its identity provider when required, and use your organization’s support process rather than deleting credential folders or changing security registry keys.
On Windows 10, see how to change your PIN on Windows 10.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.