Windows 11 insists that I use my PIN even though I use my fingerpirnt

DysphasiaPV 110 Reputation points
2026-07-08T09:12:22.8033333+00:00

Hey,

I use my fingerprint to log in, and yet Windows 11 insists that I use my PIN as well as my fingerprint. Is this meant to happen now, or is there something wrong?

I can't add screenshots because it happens when I log in, and I don't know how to capture a screenshot for the login.

Kind regards,

Damo

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Security and privacy
0 comments
Answer accepted by question author
SD - IA 179.6K Reputation points Independent Advisor
2026-07-08T11:37:52.7033333+00:00

Hi,

I can totally relate to the frustration caused by the issue. Surely you need not use a PIN after you use your fingerprint - what happens is it falls back to PIN if the fingerprint is wrong.

Typically, resetting the fingerprint data helps in this scenario.

Press Windows key + R, to open the Run dialog box.

Type services.msc and click on OK.

Look for Windows Biometric Service, right-click it and click on Stop.

Now, go to C:\Windows\System32\WinBioDatabase.

Delete all the contents inside the same.

Restart your PC.

Set up PIN again, and then add your fingerprint.

I’m eager to hear back and work together to find a solution.

Was this answer helpful?

1 person found this answer helpful.

0 additional answers

Sort by: Most helpful
Most helpful Newest Oldest

Your answer

Answers can be marked as 'Accepted' by the question author and 'Recommended' by moderators, which helps users know the answer solved the author's problem.