Windows 11: Windows Hello

When to Use?

Setting up Windows Hello after your upgrade to Windows 11.

Procedure

After a computer has upgraded to Windows 11, you will arrive at the Windows Hello setup screen. Windows Hello offers many different ways to sign into your computer. Please follow along with the information below to decide which sign-in method is best for you.

Laptop Setup
Desktop Setup

Windows Hello for desktop computers is currently set up as a manual opt-in process. To start the process please follow the steps below:

1. Click on the Windows search bar and type Sign-in options. Then click Sign-in options under Best match.

2. Click the PIN (Windows Hello) dropdown menu.

3. Click the Set up button.

4. Click the OK button.

5. Click the Next button.

6. You will arrive at the following screen. At this point, setting up multifactor authentication is required. The default method is the Microsoft Authenticator app, but there are multiple authentication options. Each option will be detailed in the Authentication Methods section below.

Authentication Methods

Microsoft Authenticator App

1. Click the Next button.

2. Click the Next button.

3. Download and install the Microsoft Authenticator app on your mobile device. Then scan the QR code using the QR code button inside the app. After your account has been connected, click the Next button.

4. Enter the number shown on screen into the Microsoft Authenticator app. After entering the number into the app, this screen will automatically progress to the screen shown in step 5.

Note: This number will be different for everyone.

5. Click the Done button.

Phone

1. Click the Set up a different way to sign in option.

2. 

Other Authentication Apps

1. Click the Set up a different authentication app option.

2. 

Hardware Token

1. Click the Set up a different way to sign in option.

2. 

Biometric Options

Some desktops may have integrated or external options for biometric authentication, such as fingerprint scanners or facial recognition cameras. Biometric authentication options are currently being tested and are not available for use at the time. Should they become available, this section will be updated.

7. Set the PIN you would like to use for Windows Hello. You may use numbers, letters, and symbols by clicking the Include letters and symbols checkbox. After entering your PIN, click the OK button.

Note: Your PIN must be at least six characters long.

8. Click the OK button.

The Windows Hello setup process is complete. You may now sign into your computer using the PIN you just set.

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