You can make Windows 11 sign in automatically on a PC only you use, so it skips the password or PIN at startup. This lowers security, because anyone who turns on the PC gets into your account, so it is best for a home desktop that never leaves the house. These steps apply to your own account.
Quick Answer
Turn off Settings, Accounts, Sign-in options, For improved security, only allow Windows Hello sign-in. Then run netplwiz, clear Users must enter a user name and password, click Apply and confirm your password.
How to Disable the Sign-In Screen on Windows 11
- Open Settings, Accounts, Sign-in options.
- Turn off For improved security, only allow Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts on this device.
- Set If you’ve been away, when should Windows require you to sign in again to Never if you also want to skip it after sleep.
- Press Windows and R, type netplwiz and press Enter.
- Select your account and clear Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer.
- Click Apply, enter your password twice and restart.
Sign-In Options
| Option | Security |
|---|---|
| Password or PIN at every start | Highest |
| Windows Hello face or fingerprint | High and fast |
| Automatic sign-in | Low; anyone with the PC gets in |
| Skip sign-in after sleep | Low |
| Dynamic Lock | Locks when your phone moves away |
Troubleshooting
- Checkbox missing in netplwiz: the Windows Hello-only setting is still on. Turn it off and reopen netplwiz.
- Still asks for a PIN: check If you’ve been away and restart.
- Work or school PCs may block this by policy.
- Prefer faster sign-in instead? See how to change your Windows PIN. On Windows 10, read how to sign in automatically on Windows 10.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is automatic sign-in safe on a laptop?
Not really. If the laptop is lost, anyone can open your account.
Does this affect BitLocker?
Device encryption still protects the drive at rest, but automatic sign-in unlocks your account on startup.
How do I undo it?
Run netplwiz again and check the box.
Can I do this for a guest account?
Use a separate account instead; see how to add a guest account.
Summary
- Turn off Windows Hello-only sign-in.
- Set If you’ve been away to Never.
- Run netplwiz.
- Clear the password checkbox.
- Apply and restart.
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.