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How to change a DEVICE pin to sign in to the computer

Luis Morales 0 Reputation points
2026-01-03T19:15:48.3766667+00:00

I cannot sign into windows 11 desktop. I forgot my pin for my device and the "forgot my pin" option does not work. I don't have other sign in options. I've tried unregistering my pc from my Microsoft account but that didn't work either. Is there a way to change a device pin using another device like mobile or on another computer?

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Accounts, profiles, and login
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  1. Thomas4-N 16,945 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-01-22T11:54:58.15+00:00

    Hello Luis Morales, welcome to Microsoft Q&A forum.

    You’ve registered the PC and you’re signing in with your Microsoft account, right? If so, you can enter your current Microsoft account password directly on the sign‑in screen. Look for the key icon and choose the password option. This should let you in without needing to reset anything yet.

    Once you're signed in, go to Settings > Accounts > Sign‑in options and add a new PIN while keeping your password as a backup.

    If no password option appears at all, your only recovery path is the login‑screen reset: Shift + Restart > Troubleshoot > Reset this PC (Keep my files).

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  2. AI answer

    2026-01-03T19:15:56.3566667+00:00

    If you have forgotten your PIN and do not have any alternate sign-in options, you can initiate a PIN reset from the Windows lock screen. Here are the steps you can follow:

    1. On the lock screen, expand the Sign-in options link and select the PIN pad icon.
    2. Click on I forgot my PIN.
    3. You will need to select an authentication option from the list provided. This list will depend on the authentication methods enabled in your organization (like Password, Security key, etc.).
    4. Follow the instructions provided to complete the PIN reset process.
    5. Once finished, unlock your desktop using the newly created PIN.

    Please note that if you are using a Microsoft Entra hybrid joined device, you will need to have corporate network connectivity to complete the PIN reset.

    Unfortunately, there is no way to change the device PIN using another device or computer if you cannot access the sign-in options on your locked device. You will need to follow the steps mentioned above directly on the locked device.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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