To remove the PIN from Windows 11 when the option is greyed out, access Settings, disable the Windows Hello sign-in requirement under Sign-in options, then navigate back to the PIN settings to remove it. Alternatively, use the "I forgot my PIN" feature to reset and cancel the PIN setup.
Windows 11 enhances security by encouraging the use of a PIN through Windows Hello. However, you might find yourself wanting to remove the PIN login option, only to discover that the "Remove" button is greyed out. This guide will walk you through effective methods to remove your PIN, even when the standard option isn't available.
Remove PIN by disabling the Windows Hello sign-in requirement
Step 1: Open the Settings app by pressing Windows+i
on your keyboard or by searching for Settings in the Start menu.
Step 2: In the Settings window, select Accounts from the left sidebar, then click on Sign-in options on the right.
Step 3: You'll notice that the Remove button under PIN is greyed out. This is because the option to only allow Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts is enabled.
Step 4: To change this, scroll down to the Additional settings section and toggle off the option that says For improved security, only allow Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts on this device.
Step 5: Close the Settings app to apply the changes.
Step 6: Reopen the Settings app, navigate back to Accounts > Sign-in options > PIN, and you will now find that the Remove button is clickable.
Step 7: Click on Remove under PIN settings. A warning message will appear outlining the implications of removing your PIN. Click Remove again to confirm.
Step 8: Enter your Microsoft account password when prompted to authenticate the action, then click OK.
Your PIN has now been successfully removed from your Windows 11 device.
Remove PIN using "I forgot my PIN" option
Step 1: Open the Settings app using Windows+i
and go to Accounts > Sign-in options.
Step 2: Under the PIN option, click on I forgot my PIN.
Step 3: A window will appear asking you to confirm that you want to reset your PIN. Click Continue.
Step 4: Sign in to your Microsoft account by entering your password and clicking Sign in.
Step 5: When prompted to set up a new PIN, choose Cancel instead of creating one.
Step 6: Close the window by clicking the X in the top-right corner.
The PIN sign-in option has now been removed from your account settings.
By following these methods, you can remove the PIN from your Windows 11 device even when the standard option is unavailable. Remember to keep your account secure by using a strong password or setting up alternative sign-in methods.
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