How to Remove PIN from Windows 11

If you set up a PIN for your Windows 11 sign-in and now find it more of a hassle than a help, you can remove it and switch to a password or other sign-in method. This guide walks you through the exact steps to delete your PIN, what you need beforehand, and what to do if Windows won’t let you remove it.

What You’ll Need

Your Windows 11 PC or laptop.
Your current Windows account password (the one you use for your Microsoft account or local account).
Administrator access to the device (your account must be an administrator).

Step-by-Step

Open the Settings app. Press Windows key + I on your keyboard, or click the Start button and select the gear icon.
In the left sidebar, click Accounts.
Click Sign-in options on the right side of the Accounts page.
Under the Ways to sign in section, find PIN (Windows Hello). Click the chevron (the down arrow) on the right to expand it.
Click the Remove button.
Windows will ask you to verify your account. Enter your Microsoft account password (or local account password) and click OK.
A confirmation dialog will appear: “Are you sure you want to remove your PIN?” Click Remove again.
Your PIN is now deleted. The next time you sign in, Windows will use your password (or another method you have set up, such as a security key or fingerprint).

Common Mistakes

Forgetting your password: You must know your account password to remove the PIN. If you forgot it, you’ll need to reset it first (see Troubleshooting).
Clicking “Change” instead of “Remove”: The Change option only lets you set a new PIN; it doesn’t delete the PIN feature.
Not expanding the PIN section: The Remove button is hidden until you click the chevron to expand the PIN option.
Using a Microsoft account without a password: If your Microsoft account uses two-step verification or no password, you may need to sign in to your Microsoft account online to verify your identity before Windows allows removal.

Tips

Keep a password as backup: Before removing your PIN, make sure you have a password set for your account. If you don’t, Windows will require you to create one.
Use a password manager: If you’re removing the PIN because you find it hard to remember, consider using a password manager to store your password securely.
Consider other sign-in options: You can replace your PIN with a fingerprint, facial recognition, or a security key if your device supports it. These can be more convenient than a password.
Re-add a PIN later: If you change your mind, you can always go back to Sign-in options and click Add under PIN (Windows Hello) to set a new one.

Troubleshooting

If the Remove button is grayed out or you get an error, try these steps:

Check your account type: Only administrators can remove a PIN. If you’re using a standard user account, ask an administrator to log in and change your settings, or switch to an administrator account.
Reset your password first: If you don’t remember your password, go to Microsoft’s password reset page and follow the prompts. For a local account, use the “I forgot my password” link on the sign-in screen after a few failed attempts.
Sign in to your Microsoft account online: Sometimes Windows needs you to verify your identity through your Microsoft account. Go to account.microsoft.com, sign in, and check that your account is healthy. Then try removing the PIN again.
Run the Settings troubleshooter: Open Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters, and run the “Windows Update” or “Accounts” troubleshooter if available.
Update Windows: Ensure your system is up to date by going to Settings > Windows Update and clicking “Check for updates.” A bug in an older build can sometimes block PIN removal.
Use a different sign-in method temporarily: If you can’t remove the PIN, you can switch to a password by going to Sign-in options and selecting “Password” and then “Add.” This doesn’t remove the PIN, but it gives you an alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can’t I remove my PIN in Windows 11?

The Remove button is grayed out if you don’t have administrator rights, if your account requires a PIN for security (e.g., in a work or school environment), or if Windows hasn’t verified your password yet. Try signing in with your password, then attempt removal again.

Will removing my PIN also remove Windows Hello?

No. Removing the PIN only deletes the PIN sign-in method. Other Windows Hello methods like fingerprint or facial recognition remain available if you’ve set them up.

Do I need a Microsoft account to remove a PIN?

No. The steps are the same for a local account, but you’ll enter your local account password instead of a Microsoft account password.

Can I remove the PIN without a password?

No. Windows requires you to verify your identity with your current password before removing the PIN. If you don’t have a password, you’ll need to set one first or reset your account.

Will removing my PIN make my PC less secure?

Potentially, if you switch to a password that is weak. A PIN is tied to your device, but a password can be used from anywhere. Use a strong, unique password and consider enabling other security features like Windows Hello fingerprint or face recognition.

What if I want to remove the PIN but keep the password?

That’s exactly what this guide does. After removal, your sign-in will use your password. You can also set up a picture password or security key if you prefer.

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

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