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To make Windows 10 or 11 sign in to an account automatically at startup, open netplwiz, clear Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer, and confirm the account credentials when prompted. This changes startup sign-in behavior; it does not delete the account password. The checkbox is not available on every device configuration.
Set up automatic sign-in with netplwiz
- Press Windows key + R to open Run.
- Type
netplwizand press Enter. - In User Accounts, select the account Windows should sign in to automatically. If Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer appears, clear it.
- Select Apply or OK. If prompted, enter and confirm the selected account’s credentials.
- Restart the PC and check whether Windows signs in to that account without waiting for credentials.
This is a commonly used configuration path, but Microsoft’s current consumer sign-in guidance does not give a netplwiz walkthrough, and the checkbox may be absent. Microsoft documents automatic logon through its Windows Sysinternals Autologon utility.
If the checkbox is missing
Open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options and look for For improved security, only allow Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts on this device. Microsoft says enabling this setting disables password sign-in for Microsoft accounts on that device. Depending on the device, turning it off may affect which sign-in options are available, but it does not guarantee that the netplwiz checkbox will appear. Microsoft notes that available options vary by device configuration; organization policies and other configuration differences may also matter.
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#1 Best Overall
- KEYBOARD: The keyboard works for Windows with hot keys that enable easy access to Media, My Computer, Mute, Volume up/down, and Calculator
- EASY SETUP: Experience simple installation with the USB wired connection
- VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: This keyboard is designed to work with multiple Windows versions, including Vista, 7, 8, 10 offering broad compatibility across devices.
- SLEEK DESIGN: The elegant black color of the wired keyboard complements your tech and decor, adding a stylish and cohesive look to any setup without sacrificing function.
- FULL-SIZED CONVENIENCE: The standard QWERTY layout of this keyboard set offers a familiar typing experience, ideal for both professional tasks and personal use.
Automatic sign-in is not password removal
| Option | What it does | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Netplwiz automatic sign-in | Signs in to the configured account at startup without waiting for someone to enter credentials. | It changes startup behavior; it does not remove the account password. Microsoft documents automatic logon through Autologon. |
| Passwordless Microsoft account | Removes the password from the Microsoft account and requires an alternative sign-in method. | Microsoft lists Windows Hello, Microsoft Authenticator, physical security keys, and other methods. Some older apps and features still require a password. See How to go passwordless with your Microsoft account. |
| Windows Hello | Lets you sign in with face recognition, a fingerprint, or a device PIN. | The PIN is associated with one device and is not the same as the Microsoft account password. Face and fingerprint sign-in require compatible hardware. See Configure Windows Hello. |
| Automatic Restart Sign-On (ARSO) | Relates to signing in after a restart associated with Windows Update. | It is a separate behavior from routine startup automatic sign-in configured with netplwiz. See Microsoft’s ARSO documentation. |
Choose between convenience and an authentication step
Automatic sign-in saves entering credentials at startup, but lowers the barrier for anyone who can physically access the PC: the configured user session opens without that sign-in step. Keep an authentication method if other people can reach the computer or if access to the signed-in session matters. Windows Hello can reduce typing while still requiring authentication; the available methods depend on the device.
Microsoft Sysinternals warns that Autologon encrypts the password in the registry as an LSA secret, but an administrator can retrieve and decrypt it. Mark Russinovich’s Autologon documentation states: “Although the password is encrypted in the registry as an LSA secret, a user with administrative rights can easily retrieve and decrypt it.” Do not treat that storage as protection from a local administrator.
Rank #2
- All-day Comfort: The design of this standard keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and full-size standard layout with F-keys and number pad
- Easy to Set-up and Use: Set-up couldn't be easier, you simply plug in this corded keyboard via USB on your desktop or laptop and start using right away without any software installation
- Compatibility: This full-size keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later, plus it's a reliable and durable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Spill-proof: This durable keyboard features a spill-resistant design (1), anti-fade keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height, meaning this keyboard is built to last
- Plastic parts in K120 include 51% certified post-consumer recycled plastic*
Windows also requires an authentication method, such as a password, PIN, or Windows Hello biometric, to regain access to a locked device. See Microsoft’s User Account Access in Windows.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- 7 Unique Backlight Color: 7 Elegant LED backlight with 3 brightness level.
- Easy Setup: Simply insert the 1.2M (4 feet) USB wire into your computer and use the keyboard instantly.
- Ergonomic design: Scissors X structure gives you the comfortable typing experience, low-profile keys offer quiet and comfortable typing.
- Ultra Thin and Light: Compact size (16.7 X 4.5 X 0.24in) and light weight (17.4oz) but provides full size keys, arrow keys, number pad, shortcuts for comfortable typing.
- Package contents: Arteck Backlit USB wired Keyboard, welcome guide, our 24-month warranty and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Durable and Reliable: This USB keyboard features a curved space bar, spill-resistant design (2), durable keys that can withstand 10 million keystrokes, and sturdy, adjustable tilt legs
- Comfortable, Familiar Typing: You’ll enjoy a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys and number pad
- Full-size Sculpted Mouse: The high-definition optical USB mouse puts comfort and control in your hands with smooth, accurate tracking and an ambidextrous shape that feels good hour after hour
- Simple Set-Up: Simply plug the keyboard and mouse into the USB ports on your desktop, laptop, or netbook and you're ready to work; compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
- Clear and Convenient: The bold, bright white and long-lasting characters make the keys on this PC or laptop keyboard easy to read and extra durable
Rank #3
- All-day Comfort: This USB keyboard creates a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard full-size layout with all F-keys, number pad and arrow keys
- Built to Last: The spill-proof (2) design and durable print characters keep you on track for years to come despite any on-the-job mishaps; it’s a reliable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Long-lasting Battery Life: A 24-month battery life (4) means you can go for 2 years without the hassle of changing batteries of your wireless full-size keyboard
- Simply plug the USB receiver into a USB port on your desktop, laptop or netbook computer and start using the keyboard right away without any software installation
- Simply Wireless: Forget about drop-outs and delays thanks to a strong, reliable wireless connection with up to 33 ft range (5); K270 is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
Turn automatic sign-in off
- If you used netplwiz: Open it again and, when the checkbox is available, select Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer. Apply the change.
- If you used Sysinternals Autologon: Run the utility and select Disable, as described in Microsoft’s Autologon documentation.
- For one sign-in only: Hold Shift before automatic logon to bypass it for that logon, according to Microsoft’s Autologon documentation.
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