Windows 8.1: Activate PIN or picture code at login

Windows 8.1 has new ways to protect the login screen. For example, you can activate a PIN request. You can find out which other options you have in this practical tip.

Login with PIN under Windows 8.1

Search for "login options" in the start menu and open the corresponding tile. Here you can see the options for the login screen.

• The first way is to log in using the password from your Microsoft account. With a click on "Change" you can adjust the password at the same time.
• If you are using Windows 8.1 with a touchscreen, an "image code" can be very practical. You choose any photo and perform three consecutive gestures on it - for example, by drawing lines between prominent points or drawing circles around faces. You can then use just these gestures to unlock your PC. Click on "Add" to set up, the further steps are explained by Windows.
• The simplest and quickest protection for users without a touchscreen is the setting of a four-digit PIN. Simply type this in when you register and it will be forwarded immediately.
• If you do not want to log in when you activate your PC, you can change this in the fourth point "Password Policy". However, please note that this can be very dangerous if others can also access your computer or tablet.

This guide applies to Windows 8.1 Pro. Before you can log in to Windows 8.1, you will first see the lock screen. This practical tip shows you how you can design it individually.