Do I need to register my fingerprint to install and use a fingerprint security key?

Charlotte 70 Reputation points
2026-08-30T00:01:11.58+00:00

I have decided to purchase 2 security keys to log into my online accounts. The model I am interested in buying has a finger print sensor attached to it. It is also plug and play. However, the one part of the information sheet has me baffled. It tells me to register my finger print in "Win10 RS 1903 or later". I'm assuming this means any Windows OS after "RS 1903". Is that correct?

What does this mean? I do not use a computer for work, so the only computer I access is my own. Do I need to register my fingerprint on my home computer, as well a put my finger on the security keys so they recognize my print? How would I go about doing this? Thanks, Charlotte

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Security and privacy
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  1. AI answer

    2026-08-30T00:01:30.3733333+00:00

    A fingerprint security key and Windows fingerprint sign-in are separate things.

    A security key is a physical device used instead of a username and password, and it is unlocked with a fingerprint or PIN on the key itself. That means the fingerprint can be stored and used by the security key, not necessarily by Windows.

    For a personal Microsoft account, Windows provides this path to use a security key:

    1. Go to Start > Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
    2. Select Security Key.
    3. Select Manage and follow the instructions.

    About the "Windows 10 1903 or later" wording:

    • Windows support for FIDO2 security key sign-in and the best experience is documented for Windows 10 version 1903 or higher.
    • Windows 11 is newer than that, so it meets that requirement.

    About fingerprint registration on the home PC:

    • Registering a fingerprint in Windows Hello is for Windows biometric sign-in on the PC.
    • A fingerprint security key can use its own fingerprint or PIN to unlock the key.
    • Those are not the same enrollment.

    If the key manufacturer says to register a fingerprint in Windows, that can refer to Windows support for fingerprint-related experiences, but the provided guidance for security keys only shows setting up the Security Key option in Sign-in options and then following the device instructions.

    If using a fingerprint scanner attached to the PC for Windows Hello, Windows can require a PIN first, and fingerprint is enrolled afterward. On supported devices, fingerprint enrollment is done through Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.

    References:

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  2. Craig Long 18,545 Reputation points
    2026-08-30T00:40:21.7066667+00:00

    My understanding is that the registered fingerprint would only be stored on your device, which is consistent with the passkey's security features.

    When verified, you are the authorized user on your device and have access to your online account.

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  3. Carl-L 21,400 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-09-01T07:31:53.8666667+00:00

    Hello Charlotte,

    Welcome to Microsoft Q&A forum.

    Before we proceed, may I have a photo of the device you are trying to buy and the part that you are confusing about?

    Regarding your questions, RS is an old development codename that some manufacturer still uses. But you are correct, this can be registered in any computer running version 1903 or later. This version is a Windows 10 version, so if you are using Windows 11, your computer is eligible.

    For the second questions, typically you don't need to register your fingerprint to your Windows Hello to be able to use it, they are 2 separate things. If your device is a fingerprint security device, the fingerprint will be registered and apply by the device itself.

    If the answer is helpful, please click "Yes". If you have extra questions about this answer, please click "Comment".

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