Fixing the "Your PIN is No Longer Available" Issue on Windows 10 and Windows 11

The error message “Your PIN is no longer available” on Windows 10 and Windows 11 can be frustrating, especially if you need quick access to your computer. In this guide, we’ll cover the common causes of this issue and offer several effective solutions to help you resolve it.

Main Causes of the "Your PIN is No Longer Available" Error

Several factors can cause Windows to display this message. Common causes include:

  • System file or Windows update issues.
  • Problems with your Microsoft account.
  • Windows Hello service malfunctions, which handle biometric and PIN authentication.
  • Security setting misconfigurations or recent device configuration changes.

Ways to Resolve the PIN Unavailability Issue

1. Restart Your System

A simple system reboot may help clear temporary glitches. If the issue is minor, restarting your device might restore PIN functionality.

2. Reset Your PIN

If rebooting didn’t help, try resetting your PIN. Here’s how:

  1. Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
  2. Locate the PIN (Windows Hello) section and click Remove.
  3. After removing the PIN, restart your computer and set up a new PIN.

3. Log In Using a Local Account

In some cases, this issue can be related to errors with your Microsoft account. Try switching to a local account:

  1. Log in using an alternative method, such as your password.
  2. Navigate to Settings > Accounts > Your info.
  3. Select Sign in with a local account instead.
  4. After switching, try setting up your PIN again.

4. Reset Windows Hello

The Windows Hello service manages PIN and biometric data authentication. Resetting this service can sometimes resolve the problem:

  1. Open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
  2. In the Reset Windows Hello section, choose Reset.
  3. Restart your computer and set up a new PIN.

5. Run Troubleshooters

Windows has built-in tools for diagnosing and fixing system issues:

  1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
  2. Launch Additional troubleshooters, select Accounts, and follow the on-screen instructions.

6. Reinstall the Latest Windows Update

Sometimes, the issue can be caused by a recent Windows update. Try reinstalling the update:

  1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  2. Select View update history, choose the latest update, and uninstall it.
  3. Afterward, check if your PIN is available or reinstall the update.