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10 Tech How-To

How to Secure Windows 10 with Dynamic Lock

Guide 10-9637 · Updated · Step by step

Dynamic Lock is a built-in Windows 10 security feature that automatically locks your PC when you walk away with your phone. It uses Bluetooth to detect when your paired phone is out of range, then triggers the lock screen after about 30 seconds. This guide walks you through enabling and configuring Dynamic Lock, plus what to do when it doesn’t work as expected.

What You’ll Need

  • A Windows 10 PC (version 1709 or later) with Bluetooth support.
  • A smartphone with Bluetooth (Android or iPhone) that you carry with you.
  • Both devices must have Bluetooth turned on and be paired with each other.
  • You must be signed in to Windows with a Microsoft account (not a local account).
  • Administrator access to the PC (to change settings if needed).

Step-by-Step

  1. Pair your phone with your PC via Bluetooth.
    • On your PC, open Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices.
    • Turn on Bluetooth if it’s off.
    • Click Add Bluetooth or other device > Bluetooth.
    • On your phone, go to Bluetooth settings and make it discoverable.
    • Select your phone from the list on the PC and follow any pairing prompts (confirm the PIN if both show the same one).
  2. Enable Dynamic Lock in Windows Settings.
    • Open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
    • Scroll down to Dynamic lock.
    • Check the box for Automatically lock your device when you’re away.
  3. Verify that your phone is selected.
    • Under the checkbox, Windows should display “Your phone is paired and will be used to detect your absence.â€�
    • If it says “Add your phone to Bluetooth,â€� go back to Step 1 and ensure pairing is complete.
  4. Test Dynamic Lock.
    • Lock your PC manually (Windows key + L) to make sure it works.
    • With the PC unlocked, grab your phone and walk away from the PC until the Bluetooth disconnects (usually 20–30 feet or when walls interfere).
    • Wait about 30 seconds. The screen should lock automatically.
  5. Adjust the lock delay (optional).
    • Dynamic Lock uses a default delay of about 30 seconds after Bluetooth disconnects. This is not directly configurable in Windows Settings.
    • If you want a shorter or longer delay, you can modify the registry (advanced users only):
      1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
      2. Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon.
      3. Create a new DWORD (32-bit) value named EnableGoodbye and set it to 1 (already set if Dynamic Lock is on).
      4. Create another DWORD named GoodbyeDelay and set its value in milliseconds (e.g., 15000 for 15 seconds).
      5. Restart your PC for the change to apply.
  6. Use Dynamic Lock daily.
    • Just walk away with your phone; the PC locks itself. No need to press any keys.
    • When you return, unlock as usual (PIN, password, or Windows Hello).

Common Mistakes

  • Not pairing the phone first: Dynamic Lock only works if the phone is paired via Bluetooth. Simply having Bluetooth on isn’t enough.
  • Using a local account: Dynamic Lock requires a Microsoft account. If you’re using a local account, switch to a Microsoft account in Settings > Accounts > Your info.
  • Bluetooth is off on either device: If your phone’s Bluetooth is off, the PC can’t detect it, and Dynamic Lock won’t trigger.
  • Expecting instant lock: The lock isn’t immediate; it takes about 30 seconds after the phone disconnects. Don’t think it’s broken if it doesn’t lock within a few seconds.
  • Walking away slowly: If you stay within Bluetooth range (even if you’re far), the PC won’t lock. Move far enough away or turn off Bluetooth on the phone to test.

Tips

  • Use a strong PIN or Windows Hello: Dynamic Lock only locks the screen; it doesn’t replace your login security. Make sure your sign-in method is secure.
  • Keep your phone charged: If your phone dies, Bluetooth disconnects, and your PC will lock when you’re nearby. That’s annoying but secure.
  • Pair multiple devices? You can pair more than one phone, but only one will be used for Dynamic Lock. Windows uses the most recently paired device.
  • Check Bluetooth power settings: Some PCs turn off Bluetooth to save power. In Device Manager, right-click your Bluetooth adapter > Properties > Power Management, and uncheck “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.â€�
  • Use Dynamic Lock as a complement, not a replacement: It’s a convenience feature, not a full security solution. Always lock your PC manually when stepping away for sensitive work.

Troubleshooting

  • Dynamic Lock doesn’t appear in Settings:
    • Ensure you’re on Windows 10 version 1709 or later. Check via Settings > System > About.
    • Make sure you’re signed in with a Microsoft account.
    • Update Windows to the latest version.
  • PC doesn’t lock when you walk away:
    • Verify that your phone is actually paired and not just connected. Go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices and see if your phone shows as “Pairedâ€� (not “Connectedâ€�).
    • Check that the Dynamic Lock checkbox is enabled.
    • Move farther away from the PC. Bluetooth range can be up to 30 feet, but walls reduce it.
    • Turn off Bluetooth on your phone and see if the PC locks after 30 seconds. If it does, the issue is range.
    • Restart both devices.
  • PC locks even when you’re sitting right next to it:
    • This usually happens if Bluetooth disconnects intermittently. Check for interference from other devices, or move the phone closer.
    • Update your Bluetooth drivers via Device Manager or the manufacturer’s website.
    • If the problem persists, you can disable Dynamic Lock and re-enable it after re-pairing the phone.
  • Dynamic Lock works but locks too slowly/fast:
    • The default delay is ~30 seconds. To change it, use the registry method described in Step 5.
    • If you set a very short delay (e.g., 5 seconds), it may lock while you’re still nearby. Set a reasonable value like 15000–30000 ms.
  • Phone is paired but Windows says “Add your phoneâ€� in Dynamic Lock settings:
    • Remove the phone from Bluetooth devices and re-pair it.
    • Ensure the phone is not currently connected via Bluetooth for other services (like file transfer) that might interfere.
    • Restart the PC after re-pairing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Dynamic Lock work with any Bluetooth phone?

Yes, as long as the phone supports standard Bluetooth pairing. Both Android and iPhone work, but the phone must be paired with the PC and have Bluetooth enabled.

Can I use Dynamic Lock with a local account?

No, Dynamic Lock requires a Microsoft account. You can switch to a Microsoft account in Settings > Accounts > Your info, then sign in with your Microsoft credentials.

Will Dynamic Lock lock my PC if I leave my phone on my desk and walk away?

No, because the phone stays in Bluetooth range. The PC locks only when the phone is out of range. If you want to lock without your phone, use Windows key + L.

Does Dynamic Lock consume extra battery on my phone?

Bluetooth itself uses some battery, but the impact is minimal. Dynamic Lock doesn’t run any app on the phone; it’s purely a Bluetooth connection.

Can I use Dynamic Lock with multiple phones?

You can pair multiple phones, but only one will be used for Dynamic Lock. Windows typically uses the last paired phone. To switch, re-pair the desired phone.

Is Dynamic Lock secure enough to protect my data?

It’s a convenience feature that locks the screen when you step away. It doesn’t encrypt data or replace strong passwords. Use it as an extra layer, but always rely on a strong PIN or biometric sign-in.

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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