Reset or Change Your Windows PIN

A Windows PIN is a quick, device-specific way to sign in without typing your full Microsoft account password every time. If you've forgotten it or just want to change it, Windows makes both options straightforward.

Changing Your PIN When You're Already Signed In

If you know your current PIN and just want to update it:

1. Open Settings (press Windows + I).
2. Go to Accounts > Sign-in options.
3. Under PIN (Windows Hello), click the item to expand it, then click Change.
4. Enter your current PIN, then type and confirm your new PIN. Click OK.

Resetting a Forgotten PIN from the Sign-In Screen

If you can't sign in because you've forgotten your PIN:

1. On the sign-in screen, below the PIN entry field, click I forgot my PIN.
2. Windows will ask you to verify your Microsoft account identity — enter your Microsoft account password, or choose to receive a code at your recovery email or phone.
3. After verifying, you'll be prompted to set a new PIN. Enter it twice and click OK.

Note: this requires the PC to be connected to the internet, because Windows needs to confirm your Microsoft account credentials.

What If You Use a Local Account?

The same I forgot my PIN link appears on the sign-in screen for local accounts too, but it may take you through a different path — potentially asking for your local account password instead of a Microsoft account. If you've forgotten both your PIN and your local account password, see our guide on recovering a forgotten Windows sign-in password.

Setting PIN Preferences

• You can set a PIN that includes letters and symbols for extra security — tick Include letters and symbols when setting a new PIN.
• PINs are stored only on your device and are never sent to Microsoft, which makes them very secure even if your Microsoft account password is compromised.

Questions about a specific error during this process? Ask us.