Confusing prompts and instructions on setting up a "PIN" to replace password

Question

Hello

Whenever I try to sign in to my personal Outlook email, I get prompts to create a different way to log in. For work, I have a token that provides codes, which was provided. I do not want to purchase something to log into my existing personal accounts. I do not use a smartphone (nor do intend to). I do not want to use "face" nor is my computer equipped for "fingerprint," and would be fine with "Pin," except the process is very confusing. Since I have Windows 11, can I create a "PIN" that is stored on my computer and not require an external USB device? Before I try setting this up, I need more information. I started the process but backed off when it appeared I needed some type of external equipment.

This is getting very confusing. I'm fine with passwords but understand Microsoft is getting rid of them; if so, they better figure out an easier way to create a PIN and not require external devices.

Answer 1

Hello Steven,

Thank you for sharing the details of your experience with the prompts you are seeing when trying to sign in I understand how confusing it can feel when you are asked to set up new sign-in options especially when you prefer not to use external devices or biometric features. The reason you are seeing these prompts is that Microsoft is encouraging users to move toward passwordless sign-in methods for improved security but you are not required to purchase any equipment to continue using your account.

A practical resolution is to set up a Windows Hello PIN that is stored locally on your computer and does not rely on a smartphone, fingerprint reader or USB device. This PIN is tied to your device and secured by the Trusted Platform Module which ensures that it remains safe and accessible only on your computer. You can configure this by going to Settings, selecting Accounts, then Sign-in options and choosing Windows Hello PIN to add your preferred code.

Would you like me to guide you step by step through the setup process so you feel more confident moving forward?

I hope this answer is helpful if you have further questions feel free to reply back

Regards,

Marcelo

Answer 2

Yes, you can create a PIN on your Windows 11 computer that is stored locally and does not require any external USB device. Windows Hello allows you to set up a PIN as a secure alternative to passwords, and it is designed to enhance security without needing additional hardware like security keys or tokens.

When you set up Windows Hello, you can choose to create a PIN that is tied to your device. This PIN is protected by the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) on your computer, ensuring that it remains secure and cannot be accessed externally. You can set this up without needing to use biometric options like face recognition or fingerprint scanning.

To create a PIN, you can follow these steps:

1. Go to Settings on your Windows 11 device.
2. Select Accounts and then Sign-in options.
3. Under Manage how you sign in to your device, look for the Windows Hello PIN option and click on Add.
4. Follow the prompts to set up your PIN.

This process should allow you to use a PIN for signing in without needing any external devices. If you encounter any confusion during the setup, feel free to refer to the Windows Hello documentation for more detailed guidance.

---

References:

• Windows Hello
• Windows passwordless experience