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You can set up Windows Hello without converting a Windows 11 local account to a Microsoft account. Open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options, expand PIN (Windows Hello), select Set up, and follow the prompts. A PIN needs no biometric hardware; face and fingerprint sign-in are optional and require compatible devices.
How to set up Windows Hello on a local account
- Sign in to the Windows 11 local account and open Settings.
- Go to Accounts > Sign-in options.
- Under Ways to sign in, expand PIN (Windows Hello) and select Set up.
- Follow the verification and enrollment prompts shown on screen.
- At your next sign-in, choose the PIN option if Windows does not select it automatically.
The PIN is the simplest Hello option because it does not require a camera or fingerprint reader. Keep the account password available as a fallback.
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Which Windows Hello sign-in method should you choose?
| Method | Hardware needed | When it fits |
|---|---|---|
| PIN (Windows Hello) | No biometric sensor required | You want Hello sign-in without adding or relying on biometric hardware. |
| Facial recognition (Windows Hello) | A Windows Hello-compatible infrared camera | You want to sign in using your face and have a compatible built-in or external camera. |
| Fingerprint recognition (Windows Hello) | A fingerprint reader | You want fingerprint sign-in and have a compatible reader. |
To add biometrics, return to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options, select Facial recognition (Windows Hello) or Fingerprint recognition (Windows Hello), and follow the prompts. Microsoft says a fingerprint reader can connect by USB if the device does not have a built-in sensor, but compatibility depends on the reader and PC configuration.
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Do you need a Microsoft account to use Windows Hello?
No. Windows Hello enrollment is in Accounts > Sign-in options; changing account type is a separate action in Settings > Accounts > Your info. Microsoft describes a local account as one created on the device that does not require internet connectivity to sign in. You do not need to convert it just to configure a Hello PIN or an available biometric sign-in method.
#1 Best Overall
Sale
Lenovo Performance FHD 1080p Webcam USB-C,Log-on with Windows Hello, Dual Microphones, 95 Degree Lens and 4X Digital Zoom, Sliding Privacy Shutter, Black
- Studio-quality video conferencing - With a 1/2.9-inch RGB sensor, 95° lens, and 4x digital zoom, this 1080p FHD webcam allows users to set the scene for every call. What’s more, dual microphones pick-up voices within a 2-meter range, accurately and clearly
- Very flexible, very secure - The Lenovo Performance FHD Webcam features a range of mounting options, from top-of-monitor to tripod, with wide-angle pan/tilt controls and 360° lens rotation support. And for extra security, it has a sliding privacy shutter.
- Business-ready, pocket-friendly - With advanced face recognition technology, this Windows Hello (4.1) FHD webcam enables multiple users to login securely, easily – without entering a password or switching accounts. It’s also very affordably-priced, too.
- Resolution; RGB Mode 1920 x 1080 (MJPG) @ 30 frame rate (default); IR Mode: 352 x 352 @ 15 frame rate
- Interface: Type-C Cable Length: 1.8 m (5.9 ft)
Why might face or fingerprint setup be unavailable?
- Face option missing: Face sign-in requires a Windows Hello-compatible infrared camera. A standard webcam alone may not meet that requirement.
- Fingerprint option missing: The PC needs a fingerprint reader, and device configuration or policy may affect availability.
- External camera or reader not working: Support can depend on the Windows release and Enhanced sign-in security settings. Microsoft documents different procedures for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 23H2. On 24H2 and later, some devices that are not Enhanced-sign-in-security devices may require that setting to be turned off; this removes existing Enhanced sign-in security enrollments and associated credentials. External camera support with Enhanced sign-in security is not supported. Check your Windows version and the device or organization’s policy before changing security settings.
Fix common Windows Hello setup and sign-in problems
If PIN setup shows an error
Sign out and back in, then try setting up the PIN again. Check for Windows updates if the error continues.
If face recognition does not recognize you
Open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options and choose Improve recognition. If that does not help, remove facial recognition and set it up again.
Rank #2
Logitech Brio Ultra 4K HD Webcam for Streaming and Meetings - Black
- Spectacular video quality: superb resolution, frame rate, color, and detail, featuring autofocus and 5x digital zoom; this Ultra HD webcam supports up to 4K at 30 fps
- Look great in any light: RightLight 3 automatically adjusts exposure and contrast to compensate for glare and backlighting
- Adjustable field of view: Choose from three dFOV presets to perfectly frame your video; frame an ideal head and shoulders view with 65° diagonal, and more of the room with 78° or 90° diagonal
- Sound excellent anywhere: With dual omnidirectional microphones and noise-canceling tech, this webcam with microphone captures clear audio from up to 1.2 meter away while reducing background noise
- Make it your own: The Logi Options+ app (3) simplifies personal device control with zoom in/out, color presets, color adjustments, set manual focus, and easy firmware updates
If the fingerprint reader does not recognize your finger
- Sign in using your PIN or password.
- Clean and dry the reader and your finger.
- Register the fingerprint again, touching the reader from multiple angles.
- Check for driver updates or register another finger.
If you forgot the local account password
At the sign-in screen, choose the password sign-in option, select Reset password, and answer the security questions configured for that account. A password reset disk is another option if you created one earlier. These are local account password recovery steps, separate from resetting a Hello PIN.
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Quick Recap
SaleBestseller No. 1
Bestseller No. 2
Best Value
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TOALLIN 4K Webcam for PC, Windows Hello Compatible, IR Facial Recognition
- 【Windows Hello Compatible 4K Webcam】This usb camera has a mini design, but it's powerful in functionality. More than just a regular web camera, it integrates a dedicated infrared camera for facial-recognition. Log in to your Windows PC securely and instantly with facial recognition via Windows Hello.
- 【4K Ultra HD Resolution with 3D DNR Tech】Built-in 4K UHD 1/2.55" CMOS sensor, outputs up to 3840×2160 resolution crystal-clear image and 4K@30fps smooth video quality. With 3D Digital Noise Reduction (DNR) technology, intelligently reduces grain and visual noise in low-light conditions, delivering smooth, clean, and professional-quality footage in every video call, meeting, and live streaming.
- 【Smart Auto-Focus】Advanced auto-focus ensures you stay sharp and detailed. Ideal for live streaming, ensuring every detail is captured perfectly, even when you move or zoom in on a detail.
- 【Built-in Noise-Canceling Mic & Wide 83° Angle】Built-in microphone with noise-reduction, captures your voice clearly while minimizing background sound. Enjoy a wider, more natural frame with the 83° field of view.
- 【USB Plug-and-Play & Privacy Protection】Simply connect your PC via USB or USB-C for instant use—no drivers and App needed. With a built-in physical sliding privacy shutter blocks the lens when not in use for privacy protection.
Rank #4
MOERTEK 2K HD Webcam with Infrared Windows Hello Facial Recognition, Computer Camera, Privacy Cover, Noise Canceling Microphones, Laptop Webcam For Video Conferencing, Live, Streaming, Online Learning
- WINDOWS HELLO & QHD 2K: Say goodbye to password for windows 10 and above, WINDOWS HELLO can quickly recognize your face and unlock your computer safely and conveniently. This webcam is equipped with a 5MP sensor that supports all QHD 2K, and has a built-in microphone and infrared face recognition autofocus. It can achieve smooth and delay-free image quality at 30fps/sec while maintaining clear, colorful, high-contrast images.
- MULTI-ANGLE ADJUSTMENT & 84°WIDE-ANGLE FOV：This webcam has a 360° horizontal rotation and 84°wide-angle field of view. So it can be flexibly adjusted to the appropriate angle you want to shoot. It can be mounting on the display of a laptop or desktop computer, can be installed on a flat surface or a tripod. (Tripod stays not included)
- FAST AUTO FOCUS & PRIVACY COVER：MOERTEK camera equipped with a high-speed autofocus function. Automatically adjusts the brightness balance during video calls or recording in low-light space. Built-in privacy cover design allows you to turn the camera off or on at any time without having to end the meeting or turn off the webcam.
- NOISE REDUCTION MICROPHONE & PLUG AND PLAY：Our camera adopts high-performance noise reduction technology. It can capture the sound clearly within 3 meters and keep the conversation natural and clear, so you can concentrate on your work. It is plug and play, just connect it to your computer's USB port and start using it immediately without installing any drivers.
- WIDE COMPATIBILITY & LIFETIME TECHNICAL SUPPORT：Our products are widely applied and can be used for various web conferencing services Such as Skype, Zoom Teams and live broadcasts on various online platforms, ect. If you have any problems, please send us an email at any time, and our after-sales service team will give you a satisfactory reply. We provide you with lifetime technical support.
Rank #3
Sale
4K Webcam with Windows Hello, Facial Recognition, Log-on with Windows hello
- Unlock your Computer Quickly and Securely: Compatible with Windows Hello makes your computer everyday use smoother. Instead of typing a password, you can sit down and see this webcam, then it will recognize your face right away, no additional configuration after you set windows hello face as the Sign-in options on your computer settings. Warning: Only supports windows 10 / 11. Please keep your face in the center of the screen and look to the webcam during setting.
- 4K UHD Resolution: Thanks to 4K sensor, 8.3MP 1/2.55" CMOS, video quality is sharp and crisp. And 83 degree field of view gives a natural head and shoulders framing for your personal ordinary meetings.
- Built-in Noise Reducing Microphone: This webcam with microphone cuts down background distractions like fans, keyboards, and surrounding conversations, allowing your voice to come through loud and clear. This has made a noticeable difference during meetings and video callings.
- Slide shutter: This USB camera is with sliding privacy cover and easy to physically block the camera when not in use.
- Plug and play: This webcam included USB C cable and USB A adapter that make it easy to plug into almost any devices.
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