Tired of the same old Win+L routine to lock your Windows PC?
There are some alternative security features that you may not know about. From facial recognition to dynamic locking, we have several other options to explore.
So, let’s dive in and find out how to lock your Windows PC.
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Start screen on a Windows PC. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Basics: Access your lock options
First, let’s get to where the magic happens:
- Click on Windows icon in the lower left corner
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Steps to access your lock options. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- Then tap Settings, which looks like a gear icon
Steps to access your lock options. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- In the settings window, search for “Accounts” and click on it
Steps to access your lock options. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- Now find and click on Login options
Steps to access your lock options. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- Here you can find a list of standard options to lock your computer. You can set face recognition and Fingerprinting (with compatible devices), PIN codes, Security keys and Passwords. You can adjust, change, or remove any of these options.
Steps to access your lock options. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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Password: The classic choice
Don’t forget the good old password:
- Click on “Password”. “Add” if you haven’t already set one up
- I create strong password and confirm it
- You can too change or remove your password here if necessary
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PIN: Quick and easy
Want something simpler than a password? Try PIN:
- Click on “PIN”. “Add”
- I create PIN this is easy for you to remember but hard for others to guess
- Confirm your PINand everything is ready
Windows Hello PIN option. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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Face Recognition: Let your face be your password
If your device supports Windows Hello facial recognition, here’s how to set it up:
- Click on Face Recognition. “setting up”
- Follow along instructions on the screen to scan your face
- See directly into the camera and stand still while it does its work
- Once you’re done, you can use your face to unlock your computer. How cool is that?
Windows Hello Face option. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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Fingerprint: Touch unlock
Do you have a fingerprint reader? Let’s use it:
- Under “Fingerprint recognition” click “setting up”
- Choose which finger you want to use
- Place your finger to the reader and pick it up when prompted
- Repeat this process until your fingerprint is fully scanned
Windows Hello fingerprint option. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Security Key: For the extra cautious
If you have a security key, here’s how to set it up:
- Click on “Security Key”. “Management”
- Follow along prompted to set up your security key
- Place key when prompted and follow any additional instructions
Security key option. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Dynamic lock: Your phone becomes your key
Here’s a neat trick — use your phone to lock your computer automatically.
- Scroll down to “Dynamic Lock” in the login options
Steps to use your phone to automatically lock your computer. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Make sure your phone is connected to your computer via Bluetooth. If not, let’s do this:
- Click “Bluetooth and other devices” in the left sidebar.
Steps to use your phone to automatically lock your computer. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- Click on “Add Bluetooth or another device”
Steps to use your phone to automatically lock your computer. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Steps to use your phone to automatically lock your computer. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Steps to use your phone to automatically lock your computer. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- Check it out PIN on both devices
Steps to use your phone to automatically lock your computer. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- Now tap “pair” on your phone and “Connecting” on your computer
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Steps to use your phone to automatically lock your computer. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- Go back to Login options by clicking on arrow pointing left in the upper left corner of the screen
Steps to use your phone to automatically lock your computer. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
- Under Dynamic Lock, check the box that says: “Allow Windows to automatically lock your device when you’re away.”
Steps to use your phone to automatically lock your computer. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Now your computer will lock itself when you walk away with your phone. How’s that for convenience?
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Kurt’s key takeaways
There you have it folks. A buffet of options to keep your Windows PC locked down tighter than Fort Knox. Whether you love this life of facial recognition, prefer the classic passcode, or want your phone to do the work for you, Windows has you covered. Remember, the best protection is the one you’ll actually use, so choose the method that works best for you.
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