Windows 11 brings a modern, secure, and user-friendly login experience. One of the most common sign-in methods it offers is the Windows Hello PIN. It’s fast, convenient, and secure — but sometimes, you may prefer to remove it. Maybe you want to switch back to using a password, biometric authentication, or simply don’t want a PIN at all.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to remove PIN in Windows 11 step by step. Even if you’re a complete beginner, don’t worry — we’ll break it down into simple instructions, provide troubleshooting tips, and answer the most common questions.
📌 Quick Summary (Key Takeaways)
Windows Hello PIN is a secure login option in Windows 11.
You can remove your PIN from Settings → Accounts → Sign-in options.
If the Remove button is greyed out, you may need to adjust security policies.
Removing a PIN reverts your account to password or other sign-in methods.
You can always add a new PIN later if you change your mind.
Why Would You Want to Remove the PIN in Windows 11?
You might ask: If a PIN is faster and safer, why remove it? Here are some common reasons:
You prefer passwords: Some users feel more comfortable using a traditional password.
Biometric login: You may want to use a fingerprint or facial recognition instead.
Shared computer: If multiple people use your PC, a PIN may not be ideal.
Troubleshooting issues: Sometimes, PINs cause login errors or sync issues.
Company policies: Work devices may require a different type of authentication.
How to Remove PIN in Windows 11 (Step-by-Step Guide)
Here’s the simplest way to remove your PIN:
Step 1: Open Settings
Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Or, click Start → Settings.
Step 2: Go to Accounts
In the left sidebar, click Accounts.
Step 3: Select Sign-in Options
Under Accounts, click Sign-in options.
You’ll see different login methods: Password, Fingerprint, Face Recognition, and PIN.
Step 4: Find the PIN Section
Scroll down to PIN (Windows Hello).
Click on it to expand the options.
Step 5: Click Remove
Select the Remove button.
A confirmation pop-up will appear.
Step 6: Enter Your Microsoft Account Password
Windows will ask you to confirm by entering your Microsoft account password.
Type your password and press OK.
✅ Done! Your PIN is now removed. You’ll log in with your password or other methods.
What Happens After You Remove the PIN?
When you remove your PIN:
Windows 11 will use your Microsoft account password for login.
If you have biometric login (like Face ID or Fingerprint), you can use that instead.
You can always add a new PIN later by going back to the Sign-in options.
Common Issues When Removing PIN
Sometimes, removing the PIN isn’t straightforward. Here are common problems and fixes:
1. Remove Button Greyed Out
If the Remove button is disabled, it means Windows Hello is enforced by security policies.
Fix:
Open Settings → Accounts → Sign-in options.
Disable “Require Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts”.
2. Can’t Remove PIN Without Password
You must know your Microsoft account password to remove the PIN.
Reset your password at Microsoft Account Recovery if forgotten.
3. Work or School PC Restrictions
On enterprise-managed devices, IT administrators may force PIN sign-in.
In that case, you’ll need to contact your IT department.
Alternative Login Options in Windows 11
If you don’t want to use a PIN, here are other sign-in methods:
| Method | Description | Security Level | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Password | Traditional account password | Medium | Moderate |
| Fingerprint | Uses biometric fingerprint scanner | High | Very fast |
| Face Recognition | Windows Hello face unlock | High | Fast |
| Security Key | Hardware device (USB/NFC key) | Very High | Moderate |
| Picture Password | Draw a pattern on a picture | Medium | Fun but less secure |
How to Disable Windows Hello Requirement in Windows 11
If you see the PIN removal option greyed out, it might be because Windows requires Windows Hello sign-in.
Here’s how to disable it:
Open Settings → Accounts → Sign-in options.
Scroll down to Additional settings.
Turn off the toggle for:
Restart your computer.
Go back and remove the PIN.
Troubleshooting: Can’t Remove PIN? Try These Fixes
Restart your PC and try again.
Update Windows 11 to the latest version.
Check if you’re on a work/school account with enforced policies.
Use Local Group Policy Editor (advanced users):
Press Windows + R, type
gpedit.msc.Navigate to:
Disable: Turn on convenience PIN sign-in.
Restart and try again.
Security Considerations
A PIN is local: It works only on your device, unlike a password that works across devices.
Removing the PIN may reduce convenience but not necessarily security.
Always make sure you have strong password protection enabled.
Enable 2FA (two-factor authentication) for your Microsoft account.
Re-Adding a PIN in Windows 11
Changed your mind? Here’s how to add a PIN again:
Go to Settings → Accounts → Sign-in options.
Click on PIN (Windows Hello).
Select Set up.
Enter your Microsoft password.
Create a new PIN and confirm.
Best Practices for Windows 11 Login Security
Use biometrics if available (Face ID, fingerprint).
Avoid using short, guessable PINs like “1234”.
Regularly update your Microsoft password.
Enable BitLocker encryption for extra protection.
Conclusion
Removing a PIN in Windows 11 is straightforward once you know where to look. By following the steps in this guide, you can switch back to using your Microsoft password or other login methods like biometrics.
While PINs are fast and secure, it’s your device — so you get to choose how you sign in. Whether you stick with a password, enable face unlock, or return to a PIN later, Windows 11 makes it flexible.
👉 Now that you know how to remove PIN in Windows 11, why not customize your sign-in method to suit your needs?
FAQs: Windows 11 PIN Removal
1. Can I remove my Windows 11 PIN without a password?
No. You must confirm your Microsoft account password to remove the PIN.
2. Why is the Remove PIN button greyed out?
Because Windows Hello is required. Disable the “Only allow Windows Hello sign-in” option in settings.
3. Will removing the PIN delete my files?
No. Removing a PIN only affects sign-in, not your files.
4. Can I add the PIN back later?
Yes. Go to Sign-in options → PIN and set it up again.
5. Is a password more secure than a PIN?
Not necessarily. A PIN is stored locally and encrypted. Both are secure if used correctly, but PIN is often considered safer for device-only authentication.