Pin Error 0x80280013 Windows: What It Is and How to Fix It

Pin error 0x80280013 in Windows typically occurs when the system fails to verify your Windows Hello PIN, often due to corrupted credentials, a pending update, or a misconfigured security policy. The fix usually involves resetting the PIN, clearing the credential cache, or running the Windows Update troubleshooter. Below, we’ll explain the root causes, provide step-by-step solutions, and answer common questions.

Background: Why Windows Uses a PIN Instead of a Password

Windows Hello PIN is a device-specific authentication method that replaces your Microsoft account password for signing in. Unlike a password, the PIN is tied to the hardware of your device and is stored locally using the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) chip. This means that even if someone steals your PIN, they cannot use it on another device. The PIN is also used to unlock encryption keys and sign you into apps and services without re-entering your password.

Error 0x80280013 is a hexadecimal code that Windows returns when the PIN verification process fails. It often appears after a Windows update, a change in system time, or when the TPM driver becomes outdated. The error can also occur if the PIN is corrupted in the system’s credential store.

How Windows Hello PIN Authentication Works

When you set up a PIN, Windows creates a cryptographic key pair that is stored in the TPM. During sign-in, the TPM uses the PIN to decrypt a secret that is used to authenticate you. If the TPM is disabled, the PIN data is corrupted, or the system’s Secure Boot is turned off, the verification process can fail with error 0x80280013.

The error typically appears as a pop-up dialog when you try to sign in or when you attempt to change your PIN in Settings. It can also appear during the initial setup of Windows Hello, especially if the TPM is not properly initialized.

Common Causes of Error 0x80280013

Several factors can trigger this error, and identifying the cause is the first step to fixing it:

Corrupted PIN credentials: The PIN data stored in the system may become corrupted after a failed update or a sudden power loss.
Outdated or faulty TPM drivers: If the TPM driver is outdated or incompatible, the PIN verification process may fail.
Pending Windows updates: A partially installed update can leave the system in an inconsistent state, affecting Windows Hello.
System time or date misconfiguration: If the system clock is incorrect, cryptographic operations may fail.
Group Policy or security software interference: Certain security policies or third-party antivirus software can block the TPM or PIN mechanism.
Corrupted user profile: A damaged user profile can prevent the PIN from being read correctly.

Step-by-Step Fixes for Pin Error 0x80280013

Here are the most effective solutions, in order of ease and likelihood of success:

Restart your computer: A simple restart can clear temporary glitches that cause the error.
Reset your PIN: Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > PIN (Windows Hello) > I forgot my PIN. Follow the prompts to reset it. You may need to sign in with your Microsoft account password or a verification code.
Run the Windows Update troubleshooter: Open Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters > Windows Update. Run the troubleshooter and follow the instructions.
Clear the PIN credential cache: Open Command Prompt as administrator and run the following commands:
- del %localappdata%\Microsoft\Windows\CloudStore\* /s /q
- del %localappdata%\Microsoft\Windows\CloudStore\Cache\* /s /q
Then restart your computer and try setting a new PIN.
Update the TPM driver: Open Device Manager, expand Security devices, right-click Trusted Platform Module 2.0, and select Update driver. Choose Search automatically for drivers.
Check system time: Right-click the clock in the taskbar, select Adjust date/time, and ensure Set time automatically is on. If not, toggle it off and on.
Run the System File Checker: Open Command Prompt as administrator and run sfc /scannow. This repairs corrupted system files.
Use the Windows Hello troubleshooter: In Settings, go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters > Windows Hello. Run it and follow the prompts.

Comparisons: PIN vs. Password vs. Biometric

Windows Hello offers several authentication methods, and understanding their differences can help you choose the best option:

PIN: Device-specific, requires TPM, works offline, and is faster than a password. It is not a password, so it cannot be used on another device.
Password: Works across all devices, but can be phished or stolen. It is stored on the server, not locally.
Fingerprint or facial recognition: Biometric methods are convenient and secure, but require compatible hardware and may be less reliable in low-light conditions or with dirty sensors.

If the PIN error persists, you can temporarily switch to a password or biometric method while you troubleshoot.

Safety and Security Considerations

When fixing error 0x80280013, you may be tempted to disable TPM or Secure Boot, but doing so can significantly reduce the security of your device. TPM is essential for BitLocker encryption and Windows Hello. If you disable it, you may lose access to encrypted data. Always try to fix the issue without disabling security features.

Also, be cautious when using third-party “registry cleaner” tools that claim to fix Windows errors. They often do more harm than good. Stick to built-in Windows tools and official Microsoft guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error 0x80280013 mean?

It means Windows could not verify your PIN during sign-in or setup. This is usually due to corrupted PIN data, a TPM issue, or a pending update.

Will I lose my files if I reset my PIN?

No. Resetting your PIN does not affect your files. It only changes the PIN you use to sign in. Your documents, photos, and other data remain intact.

Can I use my Microsoft account password instead of a PIN?

Yes. You can sign in with your Microsoft account password by clicking “Sign-in options” on the lock screen and selecting the password icon. However, Windows Hello features like fingerprint or face recognition may still require a PIN to be set up.

Why does the error appear after a Windows update?

Windows updates can sometimes modify system files or TPM drivers, causing a conflict with the existing PIN. Resetting the PIN or updating the TPM driver usually resolves it.

Is it safe to delete the CloudStore folder?

Yes. The CloudStore folder contains cached data for Windows Hello and other cloud features. Deleting it forces Windows to recreate the data, which can fix corruption. Your personal files are not affected.

What if none of the fixes work?

If the error persists, you may need to create a new user account or perform a system restore to a point before the issue started. In rare cases, a clean reinstall of Windows may be necessary.

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

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