Enable Ctrl Alt Delete Secure Sign-In Windows 11

Requiring users to press Ctrl + Alt + Delete before signing into Windows 11 adds an extra layer of security known as Secure Sign-in. This feature ensures that the authentic Windows login screen appears rather than a spoofed screen designed by malware to capture credentials. This guide outlines the most straightforward methods to enable this security feature using the User Accounts tool, the Local Security Policy editor, and the Windows Registry.

Method 1: Using the User Accounts Tool (Netplwiz)

This is the quickest method and works on all editions of Windows 11.

  1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type netplwiz and press Enter.
  3. In the User Accounts window, navigate to the Advanced tab.
  4. Locate the Secure sign-in section at the bottom.
  5. Check the box labeled Require users to press Ctrl+Alt+Delete.
  6. Click Apply and then OK.

Method 2: Using the Local Security Policy

This method is suitable for Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions.

  1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type secpol.msc and press Enter.
  3. In the left pane, expand Local Policies and click on Security Options.
  4. In the right pane, locate and double-click the policy named Interactive logon: Do not require CTRL+ALT+DEL.
  5. Set the policy to Disabled (disabling the bypass enforces the Ctrl + Alt + Delete prompt).
  6. Click Apply and then OK.

Method 3: Using the Registry Editor

If you prefer using the registry or need to automate the configuration, use the following steps:

  1. Press Windows Key + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
  2. Navigate to the following path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon
  3. In the right pane, locate the DWORD value named DisableCAD. (If it does not exist, right-click an empty area, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it DisableCAD).
  4. Double-click DisableCAD and change its Value data to 0.
  5. Click OK and restart your computer to apply the changes.

Once enabled by any of these methods, lock your PC by pressing Windows Key + L to verify that the Ctrl + Alt + Delete prompt is active.