Here’s how Windows Hello works and how it could improve your Microsoft account security.

Instructions in this article apply to Windows 11 and Windows 10.

What Is Windows Hello and How Does It Work?

Hello search term and the Open button highlighted on the Windows 11 Start menu.

Windows Hello usesbiometricsto identify and authenticate users.

Biometrics analyze and measure specific, unique human characteristics as an extremely secure way to identify someone.

For instance, not even identical twins share identical fingerprints.

Set up button highlighted on the Windows 10 sign-in options screen.

Microsoft Hello technology utilizes these distinct identifiers for authentication.

Typehellointo the search box, then selectOpenunderSet up face sign-in.

On Windows 11, selectFacial recognition (Windows Hello)>Set up.

Get started button highlighted on the Windows Hello Setup screen.

On Windows 10, selectWindows Hello Face>Set Up.

If you have already set up a PIN, you must enter it to continue setup.

check that your face is centered in the frame and complete the setup.

Screenshot of Windows Hello Face setup

Typefingerprintinto the Windows search box, then selectOpenunderSet up fingerprint sign-in.

On Windows 11, selectFingerprint recognition (Windows Hello)>Set up.

On Windows 10, selectWindows Fingerprint>Set up.

Fingerprint search term and Open button highlighted in the Windows 11 Start menu.

Scan your finger on the fingerprint reader and complete the setup.

How to Set up Windows Hello PIN

A PIN you create provides a secure backup login option.

It’s also a secure and fast option if facial or fingerprint recognition aren’t available on your setup.

Screenshot of Hello Fingerprint setup

Typesign ininto the search box, then selectOpenunderSign-in options.

On Windows 11, choosePIN (Windows Hello), then selectSet up.

On Windows 10, chooseAddunder thePINheading.

Sign in search term and Open button highlighted in the Windows 11 search results.

Verify your account password if prompted, then create the PIN and pressOK.

PIN (Windows Hello) and Set up highlighted in the Windows 11 Settings app.

Add button highlighted on the Windows 10 sign-in options screen.

Text boxes and OK button highlighted on the Set up a PIN prompt on Windows 11.