Activate and set up Windows Hello - how it works

If you activate Windows Hello, you can log in to Windows 10 using facial recognition from a camera or a fingerprint. In this article we will tell you exactly how this works and what you need to consider when setting it up.

Activate Windows 10 Hello: The system requirements

The Windows Hello biometric authentication system should not only work well, but above all it should also be secure. The new Windows 10 feature is therefore based on the "Isometric Key Cryptography" security procedure, which is also used for chip cards and smartphones. The result: You need special hardware to be able to use the feature:

• The basic requirement is Windows 10 64-bit.
• If you want to log in using your fingerprint, you also need a fingerprint sensor or an illuminated infrared sensor.
• A simple webcam is not sufficient for facial recognition. Rather, you need a special combination of infrared camera and suitable software. They currently only offer the Intel RealSense and the Razer Stargazer.
• You can find out which devices from Microsoft and Intel have already installed the appropriate hardware on the respective websites.
• Tip: To check whether your PC meets these requirements, press the key combination [Windows] + [I]. In the new window, go to "Accounts" under "Accounts". If the "Windows Hello" section shows that this is not supported, you lack the necessary hardware. If not, you can start setting up.

Activate and set up Windows Hello - how it works

1. Press the key combination [Windows] + [I] to open the Windows settings.
2. In the "Accounts" category, click on the "Login options" entry on the left.
3. Then choose the "Windows Hello" for face recognition or fingerprint sensor technology - depending on which registration option you want to use.
4. Now enter your Windows PIN. If you don't already have one, you must first set up a PIN. This number code is your backup in case the login with Windows Hello should fail.
5. Then follow the on-screen instructions. Set up face detection. Look at the screen as naturally and neutrally as possible so that Windows can register your face. To set up the fingerprint scanner, place your finger on the sensor.
6. It may take some time to set up. As soon as Windows 10 has collected all the necessary information, you will receive a notification.
7. Then log out with the key combination [Windows] + [L] and test your new login method. You can recognize the activated Windows Hello by the corresponding message at the top of the lock screen.
8. Note: If you want to set up Windows Hello for several PC users, repeat these steps for all people who are to log in in this way.

Read on the next page how to start Windows 10 completely without login.