Troubleshooting “Sorry, this PIN isn’t working” Error on Windows 10
As avid Windows users ourselves, we understand the frustration that arises when trying to sign in using a PIN and being met with the message "Sorry, this PIN isn’t working." This error prevents access to the desktop and applications, rendering Windows 10 practically useless until resolved.
After perusing through forum threads discussing this exact issue, we have gathered proven solutions that have worked for others encountering the PIN not working error. By walking through these fixes step-by-step, you will once again gain full access to your Windows 10 machine.
Verify You Are Using the Correct PIN
First things first, double check that you are inputting the proper PIN. It may seem obvious, but oftentimes we autopilot through the login process and input an old PIN out of habit. Carefully enter your current 6-digit PIN, considering any recent changes made.
How do I Change My PIN if I Forgot my Password?
You have to change it manually in the phone’s settings under change password. There is no need to go through the reset procedure to change your pin. Simply go to settings> accounts > sign in options, and click on the change button, seen in the tutorial just to the left of the “I forgot my pin” link.
Why can’t I log in to Windows using a pin?
If you are unable to Sign-In to Windows using the PIN because of error messages, then click on the Sign-In Options link on the Windows log-in screen and select the option Microsoft Account Password to sign in to the system for further troubleshooting. You can remove the existing PIN and add a new PIN from inside the operating system
If still unsuccessful, the PIN itself is likely the culprit.
Reset Your Forgotten PIN
If you cannot recall your correct PIN, resetting it is simple. Here are a few methods:
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In Windows Settings, navigate to Accounts > Sign-in options. Select "I forgot my PIN" and follow the prompts to reset.
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At the lock screen, click "I forgot my PIN" under the PIN field. Again follow the instructions to create and confirm a new PIN.
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Start in Safe Mode using your password, then reset your PIN via Settings.
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While more involved, deleting the Ngc folder forces Windows to reconfigure the PIN.
Resetting through Settings is the most direct route. Just ensure your Microsoft account password is known, as this will be required.
Switch to a Local Account
For machines using a Microsoft account, switching to a local account circumvents any potential account-specific conflicts. This also provides an opportunity to freshly setup a PIN.
To swap to a local account:
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Go to Settings > Accounts and select "Sign in with a local account"
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Create a new local account with a desired username and password
Do pin numbers increase security in Windows 10?
“PIN numbers in Windows 10 are not really included to increase the security of that specific device” My worry is whether they decrease the security or not. For example, if Windows only allowed 5 PIN attempts and then disabled this login feature, I wouldn’t really feel any less secured.
How do I change my pin on Windows 10?
If you want to change the PIN please follow these steps. -Press the Windows+S key combination to display the Search box. -Find the “PIN” section and click the Change button. -Enter your Windows password, then click the Ok button. -Select and enter a new 4 digit numeric pin, then enter it again for confirmation. -Click the Finish button.
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Sign out of the Microsoft account when prompted
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Set a new PIN while signed in to the local profile
Check Antivirus and Keyboard Software
Third-party antivirus software and keyboard utilities like MSI or Razer Synapse have been reported to interfere with Windows Hello PIN functionality. Try these troubleshooting steps:
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Temporarily uninstall antivirus and other peripherals software
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Setup PIN while the conflict software is removed
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Update or reinstall the third party software afterwards
This resolves any incompatibility issues stemming from external programs.
PIN Suddenly Not Working? Try These Fixes
If your PIN was working previously, don’t immediately assume the worst. A few simple actions can get functionality restored:
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Restart your computer and try entering the PIN again
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Reset your account password in case this is conflicting with the PIN
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Perform a system restore to rollback any registry changes
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Upgrade to the latest Windows 10 version for a potential bug fix
Create a New Windows User Profile
As a last resort, creating a new user profile will guarantee all PIN settings are reset. Backup your personal files first, then:
What happens if I Reset my Microsoft account pin?
If you use your Microsoft account PIN to access games, social networking, or financial institutions, you’ll need to log in from scratch in each of those places after your reset your PIN. If you are unable to sign in to Windows 10 with your PIN, you can click/tap on the Sign-in options link, and select to sign in with your password instead.
How do I remove a pin from Windows 10?
Just had the same after the PC had automatically updated Windows 10. When you go to logon select options under the space where you put the pin and select to use your password instead (password for your Outlook account). Then once in go to account settings and select remove pin (will ask for password again). Then re-add the pin.
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Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & Other Users
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Select "Add someone else to this PC"
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Create new account credentials and PIN
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Transfer over personal data from the old profile
This should fully resolve even the most stubborn PIN login issues. Be sure to record the new PIN so the problem does not resurface!
Prevent Future Windows PIN Problems
Pin issues tend to crop up following Windows updates or account changes. Get ahead of potential problems by:
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Recording your PIN somewhere secure in case you forget
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Backing up data regularly with system images
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Making note of any software/hardware changes
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Monitoring Windows Update logs
Being proactive gives you an advantage when dealing with finicky Windows 10 problems. Quickly reverting changes or restoring backups helps minimize downtime and frustration.
How to remove a password in Windows 10?
If you don’t get the password option, then Start your PC in safe mode in Windows 10 from Sign-in screen . Then we would suggest you to remove the PIN by performing Step 1. Press Windows + I key to open Settings > Click on Account > Select Sign-in options > Click on Windows Hello PIN > Click on Remove. Then perform these steps
Why can’t I add a pin to my Windows 10 account?
Disable or change your security software Sometimes Windows 10 won’t let you add a PIN when your security software (antivirus or firewall) is blocking the powershell.exe after a Windows update. Allow the program/unblock it via your antivirus program setting, and see if you can go straight to your account settings and add a PIN.
Can I use a pin instead of a password in Windows 10?
You can set a PIN and use it in place of passwords. Use of a PIN makes it easier to sign in to your Windows devices and connect to apps and other online services such as social networks. When trying to change or add a PIN logon in Windows 10, you may encounter issues such as: Error Message Something went wrong (code: 0x8009002d).
We hope these tips empower you to once again access your Windows desktop and applications using your chosen PIN method. Don’t hesitate to add your own hard-earned advice in the comments for the benefit of others battling the "Sorry this PIN isn’t working" predicament.
References
- https://www.makeuseof.com/windows-10-pin-not-working/
- https://www.minitool.com/data-recovery/windows-10-11-pin-not-working-fixed.html
What if I forgot my pin on Windows 10?
If you’ve been locked out of your Windows PC for any reason, start by going to the login screen and clicking the “I Forgot My PIN” link. Enter the password for your Microsoft account. You can then input an existing account security code or have Microsoft send a new code via email. Input the security code and click “Verify.”
How do I fix a pin not working?
Select and enter a new 4 digit numeric pin, then enter it again for confirmation. -Click the Finish button. -Exit the PIN setup utility. Also if you are encountering error or your pin is not working you can troubleshoot it by using the different indicated in the link below. Hope it helps. Standard Disclaimer: This is a non-Microsoft website.
