Cant reset my pin

Question

I have forgotten my PIN to put word onto a new computer, not online version but desktop. I cant find anywehere to reset it. When it tells me to go to certain pages what is supposed to be there isnt. What do i do? I cant find any number to call.

Answer 1

If you have forgotten your PIN for Windows and are unable to reset it, you can follow these steps depending on whether you have an alternate sign-in method:

Resetting PIN from Settings (if signed in with an alternate credential):

1. Sign in to Windows using an alternate credential.
2. Open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
3. Select PIN (Windows Hello) > I forgot my PIN and follow the instructions.

Resetting PIN from the Lock Screen:

1. On the lock screen, expand the Sign-in options link and select the PIN pad icon.
2. Select I forgot my PIN from the PIN credential provider.
3. Choose an authentication option from the list provided (like Password, Security key, etc.).
4. Follow the instructions to reset your PIN.

If you are using a Microsoft Entra hybrid joined device, ensure you have corporate network connectivity to complete the reset.

If you still encounter issues, you might consider enabling the built-in administrator account to log into Windows and then reset your PIN from there. This can be done through the Command Prompt in Windows Recovery Environment.

If you need further assistance, consider reaching out to Microsoft Support for help with your account.

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References:

• PIN reset

Answer 2

HI Hannah,

I completely understand you wanted to help in resetting PIN to be able to access to your new computer. There were options to try by going to Windows Recovery:

1. Startup Repair – Automatically fixes common boot and sign-in issues that may affect Windows Hello or PIN functionality.
2. Safe Mode – Boot into Safe Mode and try signing in with your Microsoft account password instead of the PIN. Once signed in, you can remove and recreate the PIN under Sign-in options.
3. Reset This PC (Keep my files) – Reinstalls Windows while keeping personal files, but removes apps and settings. This often resolves corrupted PIN or Windows Hello components without full data loss.
4. System Restore – If restore points exist, revert Windows to an earlier state before the PIN issue occurred.

But if these fail, the most effective option is usually a clean install. A clean install removes all existing data, settings, and apps, so any files not backed up will be lost. On a new PC, this risk is lower since there’s likely little data to lose.