A Dell fingerprint sensor may stop working because its driver is missing, it is disabled in BIOS, Windows Hello enrollment needs to be reset, or the laptop has a hardware or firmware issue. The message “This option is currently unavailable” does not by itself prove that the laptop has no fingerprint reader.
Start by checking whether Windows detects the sensor. Then install the driver for your exact Dell model, check BIOS and diagnostics, and reset Windows Hello enrollment if the reader is detected.
1. Update the Dell fingerprint driver and BIOS
Dell does not use one universal fingerprint-driver package. Depending on the laptop, the package may be listed as Fingerprint Sensor, Goodix Fingerprint Sensor, Synaptics, Dell ControlVault, Validity, or another vendor name. Use the driver listed for your exact model.
Use SupportAssist
- Open Start and launch SupportAssist.
- Select Home > Update Software > Start.
- Install the available driver and BIOS updates.
- Restart the laptop if prompted.
If SupportAssist does not offer the required update, download it manually from Dell Support.
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Download the correct package manually
- Open Dell Support and identify the exact laptop model or enter its Service Tag.
- Select the installed version of Windows.
- Set the driver category to Security.
- Look for Fingerprint Sensor or Goodix Fingerprint Sensor. A package listed under Synaptics, Dell ControlVault, Validity, or another vendor name may also be correct for your model.
- Open File Explorer and go to the folder containing the download.
- Double-click the setup file and follow the installation prompts.
- Restart the laptop.
Driver versions are model-specific. For example, Dell lists packages such as 23.0.0.304, A05 for some Inspiron and Vostro systems and 24.0.0.205, A07 for some Dell 15 and Dell Pro 15 Essential models. Do not install a package merely because it is described as a “Dell fingerprint driver”; match it to the exact computer.
Install BIOS updates if the sensor disappears after reboot
If the reader works until the laptop restarts and then disappears from Device Manager, check the BIOS before repeatedly resetting Windows Hello. Dell has identified a BIOS defect affecting these systems:
- Dell 14 Plus DB14250
- Dell 16 Plus DB16250
- Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1 DB04250
- Dell 16 Plus 2-in-1 DB06250
For these models, BIOS version 1.1.0 or later resolves the fingerprint-device disappearance problem. Other Dell models can also require a model-specific BIOS update, so install the BIOS update offered on the computer’s Dell Support page.
Rank #2
- 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.
- Plug-and-Play Fingerprint Login - No extra app is needed on most genuine Windows systems. Insert the USB fingerprint scanner, set up fingerprint sign-in through Windows Hello, and unlock your PC without typing long passwords every time.
- Fast 0.5s 360° Recognition - Capacitive fingerprint technology supports quick authentication in about 0.5 seconds. 360° touch recognition helps read your fingerprint from different angles for faster, smoother daily login.
- 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.
2. Reinstall the sensor and reset Windows Hello
First check whether Windows detects the hardware. If the reader is not detected, Windows Hello cannot enroll a fingerprint.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsCheck Device Manager
- Search Windows for Device Manager and open it.
- Expand Biometric devices.
- Look for the fingerprint sensor.
- If it is not there, expand Unknown devices and check for an unidentified fingerprint reader.
If the sensor appears under Biometric devices, reinstall it:
- Right-click Start and select Device Manager.
- Expand Biometric devices.
- Right-click the fingerprint sensor and select Uninstall device.
- Confirm the uninstall if Windows asks.
- Restart the laptop.
Windows should automatically reinstall the necessary driver after the restart. If the device appears with a warning icon or remains under Unknown devices, install the model-specific Dell package from the first method rather than assuming Windows selected the right driver.
Rank #3
- Certified to Microsoft’s highest fingerprint security standards (ESS & SDCP) for robust, hardware-isolated authentication. Supports next-gen Windows features, including Copilot Recall and Windows Hello with ESS support.
- Windows Hello ready for fast, password free fingerprint login to Windows and Microsoft 365 accounts
- On device fingerprint storage keeps biometric data securely within the key. Supports privacy regulations (GDPR, BIPA, CCPA) through on device biometric processing; TAA compliant.
- Reliable wired USB fingerprint authentication with USB C and USB A compatibility for desktop PCs.
- Consistent, all condition 360° fingerprint recognition.
Remove and recreate the fingerprint enrollment
- Search Windows for Sign-in options and open it.
- Under Windows Hello Fingerprint or Fingerprint recognition, select Remove.
- Select Set up.
- Choose Get started.
- Enter the Windows PIN when prompted.
- Follow the instructions to scan the same finger from different angles.
When enrollment finishes, press Windows logo key + L to lock Windows. Confirm that the fingerprint sign-in option appears on the lock screen and test it.
If Set up is unavailable, check Device Manager again. An absent sensor may indicate a disabled BIOS setting, a missing driver, a hardware problem, or a laptop configuration without a fingerprint reader. Resetting Windows Hello will not fix a sensor that Windows cannot detect.
3. Check BIOS, diagnostics, and Windows
Enable the reader in BIOS
- Restart the Dell laptop.
- As it starts, repeatedly press F2 to enter BIOS setup.
- Look under Integrated Devices or Security.
- Find Enable Fingerprint Reader and make sure it is enabled.
- Save the change and exit BIOS.
The exact menu location varies by Dell model. If there is no fingerprint-reader setting, verify the hardware configuration and continue with the driver and diagnostic checks.
Rank #4
- Instant Windows Hello Integration: Seamlessly access your Windows 10/11 PC with Microsoft-certified biometric authentication. Replace cumbersome passwords with one-touch fingerprint login through the native Windows Hello framework-no third-party software required
- Microsoft-Certified Security: Officially supports Windows Biometric Framework and Windows Hello. 0.001% False Acceptance Rate and 0.1% False Rejection Rate-bank-grade security for your desktop
- Plug & Play No Drivers Needed: Zero driver installation for genuine Windows systems-automatic recognition upon connection (95%+ compatibility). For custom Windows builds, a free driver update is available via the included quick-start guide
- 10 Fingerprints Fast for Everyone: Store up to 10 unique fingerprints for family members or shared workstations. Lightning-fast authentication in under 0.5 seconds-no waiting, no frustration
- One-Click Lock Privacy at Your Fingertips: Lock your PC instantly with a single keystroke when you step away from your desk. Includes 1.5m/5ft extension cable for flexible, ergonomic desktop placement
Run Dell hardware diagnostics
Open Dell’s fingerprint-reader support page and follow the on-screen instructions. Install SupportAssist if Dell requests it, then run the available hardware test.
| Test result | What to do next |
|---|---|
| Hardware test fails | Contact Dell Technical Support. A failed test points to a hardware issue that Windows Hello changes are unlikely to resolve. |
| Hardware test passes | Continue with Windows updates, driver installation, BIOS checks, and Windows Hello troubleshooting. |
Run the Windows Hardware and Devices troubleshooter
- Press Windows logo key + R.
- Enter msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic.
- Press Enter.
- In the Hardware and Devices window, select Next.
- Apply any recommended fixes and restart the laptop.
Install Windows updates
- Open Start > Settings > Windows Update.
- Select Check for updates.
- Install available updates. If Windows shows Download now, select it.
- Restart the computer.
If Windows was recently reinstalled, Dell notes that chipset firmware may also need updating before the biometric device works correctly.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What the error message means
The message “This option is currently unavailable” has several possible explanations:
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- Designed for Windows 10: Supports Windows Hello Authentication
- Fast Fingerprint Authentication
- Documents/Folder Encryption
- 360° Fingerprint Recognition | Multi-Fingerprint Registration
- [24/7 Customer Support] Please send a message directly to our store to assist you if you are encountering any difficulty with using this item. Our team is always here happy to assist you. Kindly see the product description below for the troubleshooting instruction with installing the driver for this device.
| What you see | Likely explanation |
|---|---|
| The fingerprint option is missing, and there is no reader in Device Manager | The laptop may not include a fingerprint sensor, or the hardware may not be detected. |
| The reader appears under Unknown devices | The driver may be missing or incorrect. |
| The reader appears under Biometric devices but enrollment is unavailable | Windows Hello enrollment, the driver, or related Windows components may need troubleshooting. |
| The reader disappears after restarting | Check BIOS and install the latest Dell BIOS; some Dell Plus models require BIOS 1.1.0 or later. |
| The hardware diagnostic fails | The sensor or its connection may be damaged. |
Not every Dell laptop includes a fingerprint reader. Check the original configuration or invoice if you are unsure. However, do not conclude that the hardware is absent solely because Windows Hello shows an unavailable option: a disabled BIOS setting or missing driver can produce the same symptom.
FAQ
Why does my Dell laptop say fingerprint is unavailable?
The reader may be disabled in BIOS, missing its driver, not included in the laptop configuration, or affected by a Windows Hello problem. Check Device Manager and BIOS before assuming the sensor is absent.
Where is the Dell fingerprint driver?
Open Dell Support for the exact computer model, select the installed operating system, set Category to Security, and look for Fingerprint Sensor or Goodix Fingerprint Sensor. The package may also be listed under Synaptics, Dell ControlVault, Validity, or another vendor name.
How do I reinstall a Dell fingerprint sensor?
Open Device Manager, expand Biometric devices, right-click the fingerprint sensor, select Uninstall device, and restart. Windows should reinstall the necessary driver automatically. Install the correct Dell package manually if it does not.
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How do I reset Dell fingerprint login?
Open Sign-in options, select Remove under Windows Hello Fingerprint or Fingerprint recognition, then select Set up, Get started, enter your Windows PIN, and scan the finger again.
What if the fingerprint reader disappears after reboot?
Check for a Dell BIOS update. On Dell 14 Plus DB14250, Dell 16 Plus DB16250, Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1 DB04250, and Dell 16 Plus 2-in-1 DB06250 systems, BIOS version 1.1.0 or later resolves the documented reboot-related problem.
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