How to set up Windows Hello on Windows 10

What is Windows Hello?

Windows Hello is Microsoft’s login method that uses biometrics to provide access to your PC. Use technologies like facial recognition, fingerprint or iris scan instead of a password.

It only works with Windows 10 specific apps. So you can log in to your PC without a password. However, you’ll need a compatible computer and extra accessories like a fingerprint scanner or webcam for this.

There are other sign-in options besides the Windows Hello Face / Fingerprint / PIN options in Windows 10. You can use passwords, security passwords, PINs and picture passwords, all of which are available on the sign-in options page.

Others are settings like login prompt after being away from computer, dynamic lock, and privacy settings that hide your data on the login screen.

How to set up Windows Hello in Windows 10

It’s easy to set up Windows Hello on your computer, and we’ll show you how to do it.

• Click Start and select Settings> Accounts.
• Click Login Options to choose the Windows Hello method you want to set up. Depending on the compatibility of your device, you may or may not see login options.
• Click Configure.

Alternatively, you can check for native Windows Hello by clicking Start, type Windows Hello, click Sign In Options, and launch the Windows 10 settings app. If your computer is running an older version of Windows, look for the Set button in Windows Hello.

In the latest Windows 10 updates starting May 2019 onwards, you are able to choose an option or icon for Windows Hello Face from the list. If you see “Set” and click on it, that’s all you need to do. Otherwise, plug-in a Windows Hello compatible webcam or external fingerprint reader to get started.

• You will get a prompt on Windows Hello and what it does. Click Get Started and verify your identity using your current password. It may include a PIN assigned during the device startup process or a Microsoft account password.
• Enter the PIN, then place your face in the center of the frame and look directly into the Windows Hello webcam to properly analyze the facial features.

You can improve the way Windows Hello recognizes your face by clicking Enhance Recognition, but this is optional and useful if you have piercings or wear glasses.

Come configurare Windows Hello Fingerprint

To set up the fingerprint reader in Windows Hello, you can use a built-in one. If it’s not available, plug an external fingerprint reader into a USB port on your computer and let Windows 10 install its drivers.

• Click Start> Settings> Accounts> Sign-in options. Go to Windows Hello and click Set up in the Fingerprint section.
• Verify your identity using a password or PIN.
• You’ll see an explanation of how Windows Hello works, after which you can click Get started.
• Swipe your finger on the fingerprint reader for Windows to receive the fingerprint data. Newer devices allow you to tap your fingers about six times on the sensor. However, if you have an older computer, just slide your fingers over the reader and you’re good to go.

Windows Hello may not work in rare cases. In these cases, it will attempt to scan your face again, offering suggestions on how to position your face. If it still doesn’t work, you’ll need to enter the security PIN you chose during setup and close the lock screen.

How to disable Windows Hello in Windows 10?

Windows Hello isn’t just good news, as it only works with select hardware. For facial recognition, it means buying a webcam with infrared capabilities.

The feature also puts a strain on the computer’s processor when paired with iris or facial recognition. The camera constantly scans the user, in turn hogging system resources, sends fans into overdrive, and drains the battery quickly.

While these are significant flaws, they aren’t always a nuisance. It also has the added benefit of having instant gratification as you won’t have to go back to the slow, clumsy and insecure password system.

If you no longer need it, you can remove Windows Hello, all associated biometric identification data from your computer.

Click Start> Settings> Accounts> Sign-in Options to choose the method you want to be removed and click Remove.

Why do you need to use Windows Hello

The obvious benefit of using Windows Hello is that you don’t need to enter a password to log in. Additionally, you can access a specific site like the Microsoft account page and storage services like Dropbox and OneDrive or password managers like OneLocker.

It will also help you protect your computer, apps, and files. Even if your Windows password is compromised, it is extremely difficult (requires special effort) to find a workaround for your biometric data.

In conclusion

Using facial recognition as a password is nothing new. However, in the past, numerous attempts have been made to use it, but the problems have never been solved due to clunky hardware and / or unreliable software.

Scanning technology continues to improve as newer devices use a combination of the traditional camera with depth sensors and built-in infrared projectors, which can correctly identify a false face from the real one. You no longer need to remember full-character passwords every time you log into your PC.