How to Log Into Windows 10 Without a Password

If you’re tired of typing your password every time Windows 10 starts, you can set up automatic sign-in so it skips the lock screen entirely. This guide shows you several safe methods—including using the built-in netplwiz tool or the Registry—to remove the password prompt at login. You’ll need to be signed in as an administrator and know your current password to make the changes.

What You’ll Need

• Windows 10 PC with an administrator account
• Your current account password (you’ll need to enter it once)
• If using a Microsoft account, you’ll need to switch to a local account first (optional but recommended for auto-login)

Step-by-Step

1. Open the Run dialog. Press Windows + R on your keyboard. Type netplwiz and press Enter. This opens the User Accounts window.
2. Select your account. In the list of users, click on the account you want to log in without a password. Make sure it’s highlighted.
3. Uncheck the password requirement. At the top of the window, look for the checkbox that says “Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer.” Uncheck it. If you don’t see this checkbox, you may be using a Microsoft account—skip to the note below.
4. Click Apply. A dialog box will appear asking you to confirm. Enter your current password twice in the fields provided, then click OK.
5. Click OK again to close the User Accounts window. On the next restart, Windows will sign you in automatically without asking for a password.

Note for Microsoft accounts: The above checkbox is hidden if you’re signed in with a Microsoft account. To use the automatic sign-in, you’ll need to switch to a local account first. Go to Settings > Accounts > Your info and click “Sign in with a local account instead”. Follow the prompts to create a local account (you can leave the password fields blank). Then repeat the netplwiz steps above.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to uncheck the box. The most common error is closing the window without unchecking the checkbox—make sure it’s unchecked before clicking Apply.
• Using a Microsoft account. The netplwiz method only works with local accounts. If you’re using a Microsoft account, you’ll need to switch to a local account first, or use the Registry method below.
• Entering the wrong password. When the confirmation dialog appears, you must enter the current password exactly. If you mistype it, the change won’t be saved.
• Not restarting. The change only takes effect after a restart. If you just lock your screen (Windows+L), it may still ask for a password.

Tips

• Use the Registry method for Microsoft accounts. If you prefer to keep your Microsoft account, you can still enable auto-login by editing the Registry. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\PasswordLess\Device. Change the DevicePasswordLessBuildVersion value to 0, then restart. After that, netplwiz will show the checkbox again.
• Consider a PIN instead. If you want convenience without removing security, set up a PIN in Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options. It’s faster than a password but still protects your data.
• Keep your password handy. Even with auto-login, you’ll still need your password for some actions like changing settings or accessing certain apps. Write it down in a secure place.

Troubleshooting

I don’t see the “Users must enter a user name and password” checkbox. This happens when you’re using a Microsoft account. Follow the Registry tip above to re-enable it, or switch to a local account temporarily.

Auto-login doesn’t work after restart. Double-check that you uncheck the box and entered the correct password. If you’re using a Microsoft account, the checkbox may be re-checked after updates—repeat the process. Also, ensure you’re not using a Windows Hello sign-in option (PIN, fingerprint) that overrides auto-login.

I get an error when entering the password in netplwiz. Make sure you’re entering the password for the account you selected, not a different one. If you forgot your password, you’ll need to reset it first via another admin account or a password reset disk.

Auto-login works but the lock screen appears on wake. This is expected behavior. The auto-login only applies at boot. To disable the lock screen on wake, go to Settings > Accounts &em; Sign-in options and under “Require sign-in” select “Never” (if available).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to remove my password?

Removing your password means anyone who has physical access to your computer can turn it on and access your files. It’s not recommended for laptops or public devices. If you do this, consider encrypting your drive with BitLocker to add a layer of protection.

Can I still use a PIN after removing the password?

Yes, you can set up a PIN in Sign-in options, but note that the PIN will still be required at the lock screen. Auto-login only bypasses the password at boot, not the PIN on wake.

Will Windows updates reset this setting?

Occasionally, a major Windows update may re-enable the password requirement. If that happens, simply repeat the netplwiz steps.

Does this work for all Windows 10 editions?

Yes, the netplwiz method works on Home, Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions. The Registry method also works across editions, but be careful when editing the Registry—make a backup first.

Can I set up auto-login for multiple users?

No, Windows only allows one user to auto-login at a time. The last user you configured will be the one that logs in automatically.

What if I don’t have an administrator account?

You need administrator privileges to change these settings. If you’re on a standard account, you’ll need to ask an admin to make the change for you.

Related

• How to Find a Forgotten Access Password
• iPhone Slow Wi-Fi? Fix It in 5 Minutes
• Unlock Windows PC When Keyboard Stops Working