Disable Windows Hello Windows 11 – If you’re like me, then you probably love the idea of Windows Hello, but sometimes it just gets in the way. So, when I decided to deactivate it, I quickly realized that the process wasn’t as straightforward as I expected. But, after several attempts, I finally figured it out, and now I’m here to share everything with you!
Why Disable Windows Hello?
Before we dive in, let’s talk about why you might want to deactivate Windows Hello. Because, sometimes, the convenience it offers comes with a few annoyances.
- It can be annoying, so logging in quickly without biometric authentication feels much easier.
- Security concerns exist, which makes passwords a safer choice for some users.
- Using multiple accounts gets tricky, so switching between them becomes frustrating.
- You just want to deactivate it, which means you have your reasons!
Step-by-Step Guide to Deactivating Windows Hello in Windows 11
I won’t make you read a novel, so here’s how you do it quickly.
- Open Settings, so press
Win + Ito bring up the Settings menu. - Navigate to Accounts, then click on “Accounts” in the left panel.
- Select Sign-in options, so scroll down to find “Sign-in options.”
- Deactivate Facial Recognition or Fingerprint, then click on “Remove” under Windows Hello options.
- Turn Off PIN Sign-in, so scroll further down, then select “PIN (Windows Hello),” and click “Remove.”
- Reboot Your PC, which ensures that all changes take effect properly.
Now, your PC should be back to using a traditional login method, so you don’t have to deal with Windows Hello anymore.
Also Read: Where Are My Screenshots Saved Windows 10? Check Here!
Alternative Ways to Deactivate Windows Hello
If the usual method doesn’t work, then try these alternatives.
- Use Group Policy Editor, so follow these steps:
- Open
gpedit.msc, then navigate toComputer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Logon. - Find Turn off Windows Hello for Business, then set it to Enabled.
- Restart your computer, so the settings apply correctly.
- Open
- Modify the Registry, so do the following:
- Press
Win + R, then typeregedit, and hit Enter. - Go to
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\PolicyManager\default\Settings\AllowSignInOptions, then locatevalue. - Change the value to
0, so Windows Hello gets disabled completely. - Restart your PC, which finalizes the process.
- Press
Things to Keep in Mind
- Deactivating Windows Hello doesn’t remove your Microsoft password, so you’ll still need that to log in.
- Some work devices enforce Windows Hello, so IT might have locked this setting.
- You can always turn it back on, so re-enable it anytime if you change your mind.
FAQs: Disable Windows Hello Windows 11
1. Can I deactivate Windows Hello without a password?
No, because you’ll need a password to manage sign-in options.
2. Will deactivating Windows Hello affect my Microsoft account?
No, since it only affects local sign-ins on your device.
3. Why can’t I remove Windows Hello?
If the option is greyed out, then your organization may have enforced it.
4. Does deactivating Windows Hello make my PC less secure?
It depends, because switching to a weak password increases risk.
5. Can I deactivate Windows Hello for just one user?
Yes, because each user on a PC can set their own preferences.
