Windows 11 often prioritizes PIN login through Windows Hello, making it difficult to use a traditional password or set up automatic sign-in. When the system disables password options or greys out the PIN removal button, users lose flexibility in how they access their devices. This guide details practical steps to disable PIN login and regain control over your preferred sign-in method.

Remove PIN Login When the Option Is Greyed Out

Step 1: Open Settings by pressing Windows + I. Navigate to the Accounts section, then select Sign-in options.

Step 2: Scroll to For improved security, only allow Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts on this device (Recommended). Toggle this setting off. Disabling this option is necessary because Windows 11 will otherwise force you to use PIN or biometric sign-in methods, and the PIN removal button will remain unavailable.

Step 3: After turning off the above setting, return to the Sign-in options page. Under PIN (Windows Hello), click Remove. When prompted, enter your account password to confirm. This action removes the PIN requirement, and you will be able to use your password for login.

Windows may require a restart or for you to close and reopen the Settings app for these changes to take effect. If the Remove button is still greyed out, review the next method to check for passwordless account settings at the Microsoft account level.

Disable Passwordless Login at the Microsoft Account Level

Some users find that even after toggling off Windows Hello sign-in requirements, the PIN removal option remains unavailable. This can happen if passwordless login is enabled on your Microsoft account, which forces the use of PIN or biometrics.

Step 1: In Settings, go to Accounts and select Your info.

Step 2: Click the Accounts (Manage my account) link to open your Microsoft account in a web browser.

Step 3: On the Microsoft account website, navigate to the Security tab, then choose Advanced security options.

Step 4: Locate the Passwordless account setting under Additional security. Turn off this feature and follow any on-screen prompts. Once disabled, return to your device and repeat the steps in the previous section to remove the PIN login.

This process restores the ability to use a password for signing in, giving you more flexibility in how you access your device.

Set Up Automatic Login Without PIN or Password

For users who want their device to boot directly to the desktop without any sign-in prompt, configuring automatic login is possible once PIN requirements are removed.

Step 1: Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog, type netplwiz, and press Enter. This opens the User Accounts window.

Step 2: Select your user account from the list. Uncheck the box labeled Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer. Click Apply.

Step 3: Enter your account password when prompted and confirm. After restarting, Windows will log in automatically without requiring a PIN or password.

If the checkbox is missing, ensure that Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts is disabled as described in the first method. This option is hidden if Windows Hello is enforced.

Switch to a Local Account for Complete Sign-In Removal

Microsoft accounts often enforce sign-in requirements for security and synchronization features. Switching to a local account removes these restrictions, allowing you to set a blank password or configure automatic login.

Step 1: Go to Settings > Accounts > Your info. Click Sign in with a local account instead.

Step 2: Follow the prompts to enter your current password, choose a username, and leave the password fields blank if you want no login prompt at all. Complete the process and sign out.

Step 3: After switching to a local account, you can further use netplwiz to set up automatic login, as described earlier.

Note: Removing all sign-in requirements reduces security, so only do this on devices that never leave your home and contain no sensitive information.

Alternative: Remove PIN Using Third-Party Tools

When built-in options fail, such as in cases of forgotten PINs or persistent greyed-out settings, third-party utilities like EaseUS Partition Master’s Password Reset feature can remove PIN or password requirements. This method involves creating a bootable USB, starting the locked PC from that USB, and using the tool to reset or remove PIN credentials. This solution is especially useful if you’re locked out or standard Windows settings are inaccessible.

Always use reputable software and back up important data before making changes with third-party tools.

Restoring password login or setting up automatic sign-in on Windows 11 requires disabling enforced PIN requirements through system settings and, if necessary, making changes at the Microsoft account level. These steps simplify device access and let you choose your preferred sign-in method.