If you’re looking to disable Windows Hello on your Windows 11 device, you’ve come to the right place. Windows Hello is a nifty feature that allows you to sign in using facial recognition, fingerprint, or a PIN. But, if you’re more of a traditionalist who prefers the good ol’ password, or you just want to turn off this feature for any reason, it’s a pretty straightforward task. Here’s how you can do it in just a few simple steps.
How to Disable Windows Hello on Windows 11
Disabling Windows Hello might sound technical, but trust me, it’s a breeze. By following these steps, you’ll be able to turn off the various biometric and PIN options that Windows Hello offers, allowing you to revert to traditional sign-ins.
Step 1: Open Settings
First, click on the Start button and select “Settings.”
The easiest way to get to the Settings menu is by clicking on the Start icon at the bottom left of your screen. Once there, look for the little gear-shaped icon labeled “Settings.” A click on it will open up a menu where you can control a lot of your computer’s features and functions.
Step 2: Go to Accounts
In the Settings menu, find and click on “Accounts.”
After you’re in the Settings, navigate to the “Accounts” section. This is where all your login information is stored, including your Windows Hello settings. The Accounts section is generally located on the left sidebar.
Step 3: Select Sign-in Options
Under “Accounts,” click on “Sign-in options.”
Once you’re in the Accounts menu, you’ll see a list of options related to your sign-in preferences. Click on “Sign-in options” to proceed. This will show all the different ways you can log into your Windows device.
Step 4: Disable Windows Hello Features
Look for the Windows Hello options and toggle them off.
In the Sign-in options, you’ll find various Windows Hello features like Facial Recognition, Fingerprint, and PIN. Simply click on each of these and follow the prompts to disable them. It may ask you to verify your identity, so be ready to enter your password.
Step 5: Confirm Changes
Follow any on-screen prompts to confirm you’ve disabled the features.
Once you’ve toggled off the features you wish to disable, you might have to click “OK” or “Apply” to confirm your changes. Make sure everything is saved so you can return to your regular password login.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your Windows 11 device will revert to using a password for sign-ins. No more facial recognition or fingerprint scanning—just the trusty old password method.
Tips for Disabling Windows Hello on Windows 11
- Make sure to remember your password if you decide to disable all biometric options.
- Consider keeping at least one biometric option enabled for security.
- Regularly update your password for enhanced security.
- Check for any software updates that might impact sign-in features.
- Be cautious when disabling these features on shared devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I want to disable Windows Hello?
Some users prefer using traditional passwords for security reasons or find biometric options inconvenient.
Can I enable Windows Hello again after disabling it?
Absolutely, you can always go back to the sign-in options and enable the features anytime you want.
Does disabling Windows Hello affect my Microsoft account?
No, it only affects how you sign into your device locally; your Microsoft account remains unchanged.
Is Windows Hello less secure than a password?
Windows Hello uses biometric data, which is generally considered more secure than passwords, but personal preferences vary.
What happens if I forget my password after disabling Windows Hello?
You can use password recovery options provided by Microsoft to regain access to your account.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Go to Accounts.
- Select Sign-in Options.
- Disable Windows Hello Features.
- Confirm Changes.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Disabling Windows Hello on your Windows 11 device is as easy as pie. While the feature does offer some modern conveniences, it’s not for everyone. Whether it’s for personal preference, security concerns, or just wanting to keep things simple, turning off Windows Hello can be done in a jiffy with just a few clicks. Now that you know how to do it, feel free to toggle it on or off as you see fit.
Remember, technology is here to serve you, not the other way around. If you ever change your mind and decide you miss the ease of logging in with a quick glance or touch, you can always go back and enable it again. For more tech-savvy tips and tricks on Windows 11, keep exploring articles and guides that help you make the most of your digital life. Happy computing!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.