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10 Tech How-To

How to Use Windows Dynamic Lock to Auto-Lock Your PC

Guide 10-28977 · Updated · Step by step

Dynamic Lock is a Windows security feature that automatically locks your PC when you step away with your paired phone. It uses Bluetooth to detect when your phone is out of range, then locks the screen after about 30 seconds. This guide shows you how to set it up on Windows 10 or Windows 11, what you need, and how to fix common issues.

What You’ll Need

  • A PC running Windows 10 (version 1709 or later) or Windows 11.
  • A smartphone (Android or iPhone) with Bluetooth enabled.
  • Your Microsoft account signed in on both the PC and the phone (for the phone link feature).
  • The Phone Link app (Windows 11) or Your Phone app (Windows 10) installed on your PC, and the companion app on your phone.
  • Bluetooth drivers installed and working on your PC.

Step-by-Step

  1. Pair your phone with your PC via Bluetooth.
    • On Windows: Go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Add device > Bluetooth. Select your phone from the list and confirm the pairing code on both devices.
    • On Android: Go to Settings > Bluetooth and turn it on. On iPhone: Settings > Bluetooth.
  2. Link your phone to your PC using Phone Link (or Your Phone).
    • Open the Phone Link app on your PC (search for “Phone Link” in the Start menu).
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to sign in with your Microsoft account and scan the QR code with your phone to install the companion app (Link to Windows on Android, or the Phone Link app on iPhone).
  3. Enable Dynamic Lock.
    • Open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
    • Scroll down to Dynamic lock.
    • Check the box: “Automatically lock your device when you’re away”.
  4. Test it.
    • With your phone in your pocket, walk away from your PC. After about 30 seconds to a minute, the screen should lock automatically.
    • If it doesn’t lock, try moving further away or check the troubleshooting section below.

Common Mistakes

  • Bluetooth not turned on on either device. Dynamic Lock relies on Bluetooth, so both must have it enabled.
  • Phone not paired – you must pair the phone via Bluetooth first, not just link it through the Phone Link app.
  • Using a different Microsoft account on the phone and PC. The phone must be linked to the same account for the feature to work.
  • Phone left on the desk – if you leave your phone next to the PC, it won’t lock because it still detects the phone.
  • Older Windows version – Dynamic Lock was introduced in Windows 10 version 1709. If you’re on an older version, update Windows.

Tips

  • Adjust the lock delay – Windows locks after about 30 seconds of losing Bluetooth signal. You can change this by editing the registry (advanced users) or use a third-party tool, but the default is usually fine.
  • Use Dynamic Lock with a smartwatch – if your phone is paired to a smartwatch, the watch can also trigger the lock if it stays in range while you walk away (not officially supported, but works in practice).
  • Keep your phone charged – if your phone dies, Dynamic Lock won’t work because Bluetooth is off.
  • Combine with Windows Hello – set up face or fingerprint sign-in so unlocking is quick when you return.

Troubleshooting

Dynamic Lock doesn’t lock at all

  • Check Bluetooth range – Bluetooth typically works up to 30 feet (10 meters), but walls and interference can reduce that. Walk further away.
  • Re-pair the phone – go to Bluetooth settings, remove the phone, and pair again.
  • Restart the Phone Link app – close and reopen it, and make sure the phone is connected.
  • Check if the phone is actually linked – open Phone Link and see if it shows “Connected”. If not, re-link.
  • Update Bluetooth drivers – go to Device Manager, right-click your Bluetooth adapter, and select “Update driver”.

Locks too quickly or too slowly

  • The lock delay is fixed by Windows (about 30 seconds after signal loss). If it locks too soon, your phone might be losing signal temporarily (e.g., in a pocket). If it locks too late, you may need to move further away.

Phone keeps disconnecting

  • This can happen if Bluetooth power saving is on. On your phone, disable battery optimization for the Phone Link app. On PC, go to Device Manager > Bluetooth adapter > Power Management tab, and uncheck “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power”.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Dynamic Lock work with iPhones?

Yes, as long as you pair the iPhone via Bluetooth and link it using the Phone Link app (iOS version). The feature works the same as with Android.

Can I use Dynamic Lock without a Microsoft account?

No, you need a Microsoft account signed in on both the PC and the phone to link them. The phone must be linked to the same account.

Will Dynamic Lock lock my PC if I leave my phone on the desk?

No, it only locks when the phone is out of Bluetooth range. If you leave the phone next to the PC, it won’t lock.

How do I turn off Dynamic Lock?

Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > Dynamic lock, and uncheck the box.

Does Dynamic Lock work if my PC is locked already?

No, it only triggers when the PC is unlocked. If you lock manually, it stays locked.

Why does Dynamic Lock sometimes not work after I wake my PC from sleep?

Bluetooth may take a few seconds to reconnect after sleep. Wait a moment, or toggle Bluetooth off and on to refresh the connection.

Related

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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