Unable to enter PIN when I start computer - need to restart everytime

Hi Mary Ann,

Thank you for reaching out to the Microsoft Q&A Forum! I understand how frustrating it can be when your PIN doesn’t work on the first boot and you have to restart every time.

Here are some quick fixes that you can try to address the issue:

1 - Turn Off Fast Startup

• Go to Control Panel → Power Options → Choose what the power buttons do → Change settings that are currently unavailable.
• Uncheck Turn on fast startup, save changes, then shut down and power on.

2 - Reset Your PIN

• Settings → Accounts → Sign-in options → PIN (Windows Hello) → I forgot my PIN.
• Follow the prompts to set a new PIN. (If this option isn’t available, remove the PIN and set it up again after a reboot.)

3 - Update Drivers

• Check for updates to your keyboard, chipset, and system firmware via Device Manager or your PC manufacturer’s site.

If the issue still persists, you can try these solutions:

1 - Repair the sign‑in stack by running these commands one by one in PowerShell (Admin)

sfc /scannow
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

• Reboot and test a cold start (not restart).

2 - Re-register Windows Hello containers (per-profile)

• Use if resets above fail or PIN option is greyed out.
• Sign in with password.
• Open File Explorer → paste this path and press Enter: %LOCALAPPDATA%\Microsoft\Ngc
• Delete everything inside Ngc (you might need to take ownership; this only removes your local PIN container, not your account).
• Reboot → Settings → Accounts → Sign‑in options → Set up PIN again.

The initial response might not address the problem. So, if your problem persists or you need any assistance, feel free to ask me by clicking "Add Comment" or "Add Answer" if you cannot add comment so your response will be visible. Thanks for your effort.

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