Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
If Windows keeps asking you to create a Windows Hello PIN after you have already set one, or the PIN seems to disappear when the PC restarts, Microsoft’s public guidance does not confirm that a specific Windows 11 update deletes the PIN on every restart. What Microsoft does document is that a repeated prompt to create a PIN may be linked to security updates or other system changes. The steps below follow Microsoft’s documented troubleshooting order, which is the supported route for this symptom.
What Microsoft says about the repeated PIN prompt
Microsoft Support’s article “Windows Hello common issues and troubleshooting tips” states: “If you’re prompted to create a PIN again after already having one, it may be due to security updates or changes in the system.” That sentence describes a possible association, not a confirmed cause for your particular PC.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Before you start, note which pattern you are seeing. If the prompt appeared once after an update, that is one situation. If it returns after every restart, that is another. Microsoft’s cited guidance does not tie those two patterns to a single cause, so do not assume one explanation covers both.
Step 1: Recreate the PIN and check for updates
You need a working sign-in method to begin, so start from a session you can already use.
#1 Best Overall
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The YubiKey 5C NFC is the most versatile physical passkey, protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with popular accounts like Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single YubiKey 5C NFC secures 100+ of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your YubiKey 5C NFC via USB and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC), to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required
- MOST SECURE PASSKEY: Supports FIDO2/WebAuthn, FIDO U2F, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP/HOTP, Smart card (PIV), and OpenPGP. That means it’s versatile, working almost anywhere you need it
- PRIMARY & SPARE KEYS: Just like having a spare house key, we recommend buying two YubiKeys - one for daily use and one as a spare. That way you’ll never get locked out of your accounts
- Sign in with your password.
- Open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
- Select PIN (Windows Hello), then choose the option shown to set up or change the PIN and follow the prompts to create a new one.
- Open Settings > Windows Update, select Check for updates, install anything available, and restart.
Step 2: If PIN creation returns an error
Microsoft’s first documented retry for PIN creation errors is to sign out, sign back in, and attempt the PIN again. Select your account picture in the Start menu, choose Sign out, sign back in with your password, then return to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > PIN (Windows Hello). If the error continues, finish the update check in Step 1 before trying again.
Step 3: If the PIN fails at the sign-in screen
The reset route depends on two things: whether you are already signed in, and whether the PC uses a Microsoft account or a local account. Microsoft’s documented options are summarized below.
Rank #2
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The Security Key C NFC is the essential physical passkey for protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts.
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single Security Key C NFC secures 100 of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more.
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your Security Key C NFC via USB-C and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC) to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required.
- TRUSTED PASSKEY TECHNOLOGY: Uses the latest passkey standards (FIDO2/WebAuthn & FIDO U2F) but does not support One-Time Passwords. For complex needs, check out the YubiKey 5 Series.
- BUILT TO LAST: Made from tough, waterproof, and crush-resistant materials. Manufactured in Sweden and programmed in the USA with the highest security standards.
| Situation | Documented route | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Already signed in to Windows | Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > PIN (Windows Hello), then set up or change the PIN | Requires a working session |
| Sign-in screen, Microsoft account, “I forgot my PIN” offered | Select I forgot my PIN and follow the prompts | Available for Microsoft accounts only |
| Sign-in screen, local account | Sign in with your password, then reset the PIN in Settings | “I forgot my PIN” is not offered for local accounts |
| Sign-in screen, “I forgot my PIN” not shown | Sign in with your password if it is offered, then reset the PIN in Settings | Microsoft’s guidance uses this fallback when the reset option is absent |
The Windows Hello PIN is tied to the device and is separate from your Microsoft account password. Resetting one does not change the other.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsWhat does not fix this symptom
- Unsupported registry edits, deleting credential folders, or commands that may disrupt sign-in. These carry risk of locking you out and are not part of Microsoft’s documented steps.
- Face cameras and fingerprint readers. Microsoft lists these as hardware prerequisites for biometric sign-in. They do not stop a PIN from being removed at restart.
- A physical security key. Microsoft lists a security key as an alternative sign-in option, subject to device configuration. It is not a repair for the Windows Hello PIN.
Security key PIN prompts are a separate issue
Microsoft Support’s notice “Security keys might require a PIN after installing the September 2025 Windows preview update,” first published November 25, 2025 and referencing KB5073129, describes a different prompt. On Windows 11 version 24H2 and 25H2, after KB5065789 and later updates, with rollout completion after KB5068861 or later, some relying-party and WebAuthn sign-in flows can require you to set a PIN on a FIDO2 security key. That PIN belongs to the key, not to the Windows Hello device PIN, so it does not explain a Windows Hello PIN that disappears at restart.
Rank #3
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The YubiKey 5 NFC is the most versatile physical passkey, protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with popular accounts like Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single YubiKey 5 NFC secures 100+ of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your YubiKey 5 NFC via USB and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC), to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required
- MOST SECURE PASSKEY: Supports FIDO2/WebAuthn, FIDO U2F, Yubico OTP, OATH-TOTP/HOTP, Smart card (PIV), and OpenPGP. That means it’s versatile, working almost anywhere you need it
- PRIMARY & SPARE KEYS: Just like having a spare house key, we recommend buying two YubiKeys - one for daily use and one as a spare. That way you’ll never get locked out of your accounts
When to stop and escalate
If the PIN still disappears after the steps above, contact Microsoft Support. If the PC is managed by a work or school account, send the issue to your IT administrator instead of changing account settings yourself. Before you contact either one, write down:
- Whether the prompt appears once after an update or after every restart.
- Whether the account is a Microsoft account or a local account.
- The Windows version and build shown in Settings > System > About.
- The date of your most recent update and the update names shown in Windows Update history.
Microsoft’s menu labels and support pages change between Windows 11 releases, so if a label differs on your PC, look for the same setting under Sign-in options and check Microsoft’s current support pages.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- You can use your B220H security key to logon to your local Windows10 and Windows 11 PC via Windows Hello. (*Windows 10 Version 1903 and beyond)
- Security Key : Protect your online accounts against unauthorized access by using FIDO2 and U2F authentication with B220H security key. It's the world's most protective security key that works with windows, Mac OS, Linux as well as Chrome, Firefox, Edge and many other major browsers.
- Strong security without worrying about fingerprint data breach: B220H is designed with strong security with fingerprint recognition algorithm using MS500 security chip designed by eWBM. This prevents information being leaked and hijacked.
- Fits USB-C port : Once the fingerprint registration is completed, insert the B220H security key into the USB-C port of each service and log in conveniently with one touch.
- For the driver download and user guide, please visit TrustKey Home support page.
Rank #4
- Windows Hello for Windows 10/11 - Only works with Windows Hello on Windows 10/11 PCs and laptops. Plug the USB fingerprint reader into your computer and sign in with one touch. Not compatible with Mac, macOS, Linux or Chrome OS.
- Plug-and-Play Fingerprint Login - No extra app is needed on most genuine Windows systems. Insert the USB fingerprint scanner, set up fingerprint sign-in through Windows Hello, and unlock your PC without typing long passwords every time.
- Fast 0.5s 360° Recognition - Capacitive fingerprint technology supports quick authentication in about 0.5 seconds. 360° touch recognition helps read your fingerprint from different angles for faster, smoother daily login.
- Compact Scanner for PC & Laptop + Multi-User Support - Small, lightweight USB design works well for desktops, laptops, office PCs and shared home computers without built-in fingerprint sensors. Supports multiple Windows accounts and up to 10 fingerprints per user account. Smart-ID security helps protect saved passwords and encrypted folders with fingerprint access.
- Important Notes — Please Read Before Purchase - Support for Win10/11 32/64 bit original system. Not fit for the streamlined version. The Lite version has trimmed the biometric component, the fingerprint login device will not be able to recognize the Hello fingerprint option.It merely supports Windows Hello, does not fit for encrypting USB drives/files, and can merely support Windows system.It is recommended to prioritize plugging into the USB 2.0 interface of the motherboard. USB 3.0 docking stations are prone to power supply/interference and unstable recognition.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →
