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If Windows 11 asks you to create your Windows Hello PIN again after a restart, try setting it up again, then check for Windows updates. If PIN setup returns an error, sign out and back in before retrying. Microsoft says a repeat PIN prompt may follow security updates or other system changes, but its public guidance does not confirm why a PIN would disappear after every restart or promise a fix for that recurring pattern.
First, identify when the PIN prompt returns
Note whether Windows asked you to create a PIN once after an update or whether the prompt returns after every restart. These patterns are not necessarily caused by the same thing. Microsoft Support says, “If you’re prompted to create a PIN again after already having one, it may be due to security updates or changes in the system.” That describes a possible association, not a diagnosis of your device. Microsoft’s Windows Hello troubleshooting guidance does not establish that a particular Windows 11 update deletes PINs on every restart.
If you can sign in to Windows
-
Open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
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Select PIN (Windows Hello) and follow the prompts to create or manage your PIN. The PIN is associated with this device; it is not your Microsoft account password. Microsoft says the PIN is backed up for recovery with your Microsoft account. Microsoft: Configure Windows Hello
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If creating the PIN produces an error, sign out of Windows, sign back in, and try creating it again. Then check for available system updates in Windows Update. These are Microsoft’s general troubleshooting steps; they are not a guaranteed repair for a PIN that disappears on every restart. Microsoft Support
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If you cannot use the PIN at the sign-in screen
If available, choose the password sign-in option to access Windows. You can then reset the PIN from Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > PIN (Windows Hello).
For a Microsoft account, you may also be able to select I forgot my PIN on the sign-in screen and follow the verification steps. Microsoft says this option is not available for local accounts. If it is missing, use the account password to sign in and reset the PIN from Settings instead. Microsoft: Reset your PIN
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Which reset route should you use?
| Where you are | Account or access | Route |
|---|---|---|
| Signed in to Windows | You can open Settings | Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > PIN (Windows Hello). |
| At the sign-in screen | Microsoft account; “I forgot my PIN” is available | Select I forgot my PIN and complete the prompts. |
| At the sign-in screen | Local account, or “I forgot my PIN” is unavailable | Choose password sign-in, then reset the PIN in Settings. |
| At the sign-in screen | Password sign-in is unavailable or does not work | The cited Microsoft PIN-reset guidance does not establish another recovery route for this case; contact Microsoft Support, or your organization’s IT administrator for a managed device. |
Do not confuse a Windows Hello PIN with other credentials
A Windows Hello PIN is a device-specific sign-in credential, separate from your Microsoft account password. Resetting the PIN does not change the password. A physical security key is another sign-in option, depending on how the device and account are configured; it is not a repair for a Windows Hello PIN that disappears. Microsoft: Sign in with a security key
Microsoft also published a separate notice about security-key PIN prompts. The notice, originally published November 25, 2025 (KB 5073129), concerns certain FIDO2 security-key sign-in flows on Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2 after KB5065789 and subsequent updates; rollout completion is after KB5068861 or later. In some relying-party/WebAuthn flows, the user may need to set a PIN on the security key. That is the key’s PIN, not the Windows Hello PIN for the device. Microsoft Support notice, KB 5073129
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- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with popular accounts like Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single YubiKey 5 NFC secures 100+ of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your YubiKey 5 NFC via USB and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC), to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required
- MOST SECURE PASSKEY: Supports FIDO2/WebAuthn, FIDO U2F, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP/HOTP, Smart card (PIV), and OpenPGP. That means it’s versatile, working almost anywhere you need it
- PRIMARY & SPARE KEYS: Just like having a spare house key, we recommend buying two YubiKeys - one for daily use and one as a spare. That way you’ll never get locked out of your accounts
Face cameras and fingerprint readers are hardware requirements for their respective biometric sign-in methods, not fixes for a PIN that resets after restart. Microsoft: Learn about Windows Hello and set it up
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.If the PIN prompt returns after every restart
If the PIN disappears again after following the documented reset steps, the available Microsoft guidance does not identify the cause of that specific recurring behavior. Avoid registry edits, deleting credential folders, or running unverified commands: those actions are not part of the cited recovery instructions and may disrupt sign-in. Contact Microsoft Support; if the device is managed by work or school, ask the organization’s IT administrator.
Quick Recap
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- Windows Hello for Windows 10/11 - Only works with Windows Hello on Windows 10/11 PCs and laptops. Plug the USB fingerprint reader into your computer and sign in with one touch. Not compatible with Mac, macOS, Linux or Chrome OS.
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- Compact Scanner for PC & Laptop + Multi-User Support - Small, lightweight USB design works well for desktops, laptops, office PCs and shared home computers without built-in fingerprint sensors. Supports multiple Windows accounts and up to 10 fingerprints per user account. Smart-ID security helps protect saved passwords and encrypted folders with fingerprint access.
- Important Notes — Please Read Before Purchase - Support for Win10/11 32/64 bit original system. Not fit for the streamlined version. The Lite version has trimmed the biometric component, the fingerprint login device will not be able to recognize the Hello fingerprint option.It merely supports Windows Hello, does not fit for encrypting USB drives/files, and can merely support Windows system.It is recommended to prioritize plugging into the USB 2.0 interface of the motherboard. USB 3.0 docking stations are prone to power supply/interference and unstable recognition.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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