Setting up Windows Hello

Setting up Windows Hello

Windows Hello is a feature of modern PCs that allows for authentication using a PIN, biometrics, or security key. This allows for similar functionality to how an iPhone unlocks with Face ID or an Android phone unlocks with a fingerprint sensor. These options live alongside your UConn email password.

Users of UConn-owned Dell computers can set up Windows Hello to make logging in faster and more convenient.

Setting up Windows Hello on a new computer

Screenshot of the Windows setup screen instructing the user to use Windows Hello with their account.
The screen most users will see when setting up a new computer

When setting up your new Windows computer, you may see a screen instructing you to set up Windows Hello before the first sign-in completes.

  1. At the introduction, click OK to begin Windows Hello setup.

  2. If you have not set up 2FA via Microsoft Authenticator, you will be instructed to set it up now. A tutorial is available here.

  3. Depending on the features of your computer, you may get a choice on what sign-in method to use. For most users, you will be prompted to set a 6-digit PIN. Set up the sign-in method according to the instructions on-screen.

  4. Once you are at the “All set!” screen, Windows Hello setup has finished and you can click OK to proceed to the desktop.

Setting up Windows Hello on a computer that you already use

You can add or modify Windows Hello sign-in methods after initial setup.

  1. Open Settings and navigate to Accounts → Sign-in options.

  2. Depending on the features available to your computer, you will see multiple options under Ways to sign in with (Windows Hello) next to them. Choose the sign-in method that you want to add and then click Set up.

  3. If you have not set up 2FA via Microsoft Authenticator, you will be instructed to set it up now. A tutorial is available here.

  4. Depending on the features of your computer, you may get a choice on what sign-in method to use. For most users, you will be prompted to set a 6-digit PIN. Set up the sign-in method according to the instructions on-screen.

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