Change or Remove Windows Hello PIN in Windows 11

Managing your sign-in options in Windows 11 allows you to customize your device’s security and access methods. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to change or completely remove your Windows Hello PIN through the Windows 11 Accounts settings menu, as well as how to fix the common issue where the remove option appears grayed out.

How to Change Your Windows Hello PIN

To update your current PIN to a new one, follow these steps:

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows Key + I or by clicking the Start menu and selecting the gear icon.
  2. In the left sidebar, click Accounts.
  3. Select Sign-in options from the right-hand pane.
  4. Under the Ways to sign in section, click on PIN (Windows Hello) to expand the menu.
  5. Click the Change PIN button.
  6. Enter your existing PIN in the PIN field.
  7. Enter your new PIN in the New PIN and Confirm PIN fields. (Check the box for “Include letters and symbols” if you want an alphanumeric PIN).
  8. Click OK to save your changes.

How to Remove Your Windows Hello PIN

If you prefer to sign in using a password or another method, you can remove your PIN:

  1. Open Settings (Windows Key + I).
  2. Navigate to Accounts > Sign-in options.
  3. Click on PIN (Windows Hello) to expand it.
  4. Click the Remove button.
  5. A confirmation prompt will appear warning you that removing the PIN will affect sign-in convenience. Click Remove again.
  6. Enter your Microsoft account password (or local account password) when prompted to verify your identity.
  7. Click OK to finalize the removal.

What to Do if the “Remove” Button is Grayed Out

If the Remove button next to Windows Hello PIN is grayed out and cannot be clicked, Windows 11’s enhanced security feature is active. To enable the button:

  1. In Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options, scroll down to the Additional settings section.
  2. Locate the option labeled: “For improved security, only allow Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts on this device (Recommended)”.
  3. Toggle the switch to Off.
  4. Close and reopen the Settings app.
  5. Return to Accounts > Sign-in options > PIN (Windows Hello). The Remove button will now be clickable.