Setting up Windows Hello

Owned by A.J. Newman, created
Last updated: May 02, 2023
2 min read

Users of university-issued Windows machines managed by Microsoft Intune must set up Windows Hello to be used when signing into their computer. Windows Hello provides authentication that matches the security standards marked by the roll-out of Duo 2FA in November 2022.

What is Windows Hello?

Windows Hello provides a different means of signing in to your computer when it is locked. Depending on the features available on your computer, this may be a PIN, fingerprint, face scan, or security key. Your NetID/UConn email password is also available.

To have these features set up, users must set up identity verification. This means providing either a backup phone number to receive verification texts/calls, or using an authenticator app like Duo Mobile or Microsoft Authenticator. In general, these means of verification are only used when the Windows Hello sign-in methods aren’t working or you forgot them.

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 authentication options, a window will pop up instructing you on how to set them up. A tutorial is available here.

  3. Depending on what is available on your computer, you will get a choice on what sign-in method to use. For most people, it will default to a 6-digit PIN. Set up the sign-in method as appropriate.

  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. Follow the setup instructions for your chosen sign-in method. If you do not have backup authentication methods set up, you will be instructed to do so here. Addition information on this process is available here.

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