The Windows 11 lock screen uses the sign-in protection configured for your user account. To require authentication when the PC is locked, set an account password or Windows Hello sign-in method rather than trying to create a separate “lock-screen password.”
Add or change sign-in protection
- Open Settings.
- Select Accounts > Sign-in options.
- Choose an available method such as PIN (Windows Hello), fingerprint, facial recognition, or password.
- Follow the prompts to configure or change that method.
- Press Windows + L to lock the PC and verify the sign-in screen.
If you use a Microsoft account, its password is also the account credential used with Microsoft services. A Windows Hello PIN is device-specific and is not the same thing as that password.
Require sign-in after you step away
Sign-in options also include settings that control when Windows asks you to sign in again. Available wording can vary by device and Windows version. For a work-managed computer, some choices may be controlled by organizational policy.
Do not use password-bypass utilities if you forget your credential. Use Microsoft’s account recovery, local-account security questions, Windows Hello recovery, or your organization’s administrator as appropriate.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.