Why Windows Hello isn't working and how to fix it step by step

Windows Hello It has become a very useful tool to facilitate and reinforce the security of logging in to devices with Windows 10 and Windows 11. This technology allows you to identify yourself through facial recognition, fingerprint or PIN, avoiding the use of conventional passwords. However, there are many users who find that Windows Hello stops working for no apparent reason.

In this article we explain Why Windows Hello can fail, how to detect the origin of the problem and, above all, What steps can you take to solve it permanently?. All with clear explanations and tools available within the operating system itself. Let's get to it.

What exactly is Windows Hello and how does it work?

Windows Hello is a biometric authentication platform built into Windows which allows access to the system with methods such as facial recognition, fingerprints or a secure PINIt is designed to provide a quick and secure way to log in, without having to enter a password.

The system uses an infrared (IR) camera or fingerprint sensorIn the case of facial recognition, the camera captures a structured image and compares it with the one previously stored on the device. If everything matches, access is immediate.

This function also can be used by some third-party appsas the Dropbox, OneDrive or password managers, which improves the overall experience and security.

Top Reasons Why Windows Hello May Fail

Windows Hello failure can be caused by several issues. Correctly identifying them is the first step to applying the appropriate solution:

• Recent system updates: After upgrading to Windows 11, some users find that biometric methods are no longer available.
• Local account instead of Microsoft account: Windows 11 requires a Microsoft account to enable full Windows Hello functionality.
• Hardware issues: The camera or biometric sensor may be blocked, disconnected, or faulty.
• Driver errors: An outdated or corrupted driver may prevent biometric sensors from functioning properly.
• Local group settings: Some versions of Windows, such as Pro or Enterprise, allow you to control the use of biometrics from the Group Policy Editor.

Common symptoms when Windows Hello is failing

Among the most frequent messages or situations that indicate a problem with Windows Hello are:

• “You could not be recognized” when trying to log in using facial recognition.
• “Windows Hello is not available on this device”, even if the necessary hardware is present.
• The facial or fingerprint recognition option does not appear in the login options.
• Errors after logging in with PIN or password indicating that Windows Hello is not configured correctly.

Basic improvements you can try before advanced solutions

If your Windows Hello has recently started failing, try these quick fixes first:

• Clean the camera or fingerprint sensor to ensure there is no dust or obstacles.
• Improves ambient lighting, since insufficient or uneven lighting can complicate facial recognition.
• Remove accessories such as hats, scarves or sunglasses, especially if you didn't use them during the initial setup.
• Recalibrate facial recognition from Settings → Accounts → Sign-in options → Facial recognition → Improve recognition.

Detailed solutions to get Windows Hello working again

1. Set up a Microsoft account instead of a local account

Windows 11 requires a Microsoft account to fully activate Windows Hello. To change it:

1. Click on the icon Home and select Settings.
2. Sign in Accounts and select Your information.
3. Click on Sign in with a Microsoft account instead and follow the instructions.

2. Update Windows to the latest version

Often, an old or incomplete update causes features like Windows Hello to fail. To update:

1. Open Settings by tapping Windows + I.
2. Go to Update and security and select Search for updates.
3. Install everything available and restart your computer.

3. Run the hardware troubleshooter

Windows offers automatic tools that detect and fix system errors:

1. In Settings, go to Update and security.
2. Access the section Solve problems.
3. Choose Hardware and Devices and click on Run the troubleshooter.

4. Enable biometrics in the Group Policy Editor

This step is only valid for versions like Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education. You can see the differences in Windows 11 Pro vs Windows 11 HomeTo enable biometrics:

1. Press Windows + R, writes gpedit.msc and click OK.
2. Go to Computer Configuration → Administrative Templates → Windows Components → Biometrics.
3. double click on Allow the use of biometrics and select Enabled.

5. Update or reinstall biometric device drivers

A corrupted or outdated driver can cause major issues. To update it:

1. Press Windows + R, writes devmgmt.msc and hit Enter.
2. Click on Check for hardware changes from the Action menu.
3. Expand the section Biometric devices, right click on your device and select Update Driver o uninstall.
4. Restart your computer so that Windows can automatically detect the new driver.

6. Disable fast startup

Fast startup can cause problems loading some services, including Windows Hello. To turn it off, you can refer to How to prevent Windows 11 from asking you to log inTo disable fast startup:

1. Open the control panel and access Hardware and Sound → Power Options.
2. Click on Choosing what the power buttons do.
3. Choose Change settings not available currently.
4. Uncheck the option Activate fast startup and save the changes.

7. Reset facial or fingerprint recognition

A corrupt configuration can be fixed by removing and reconfiguring the recognition:

1. Go to Settings → Accounts → Sign-in options.
2. Choose Facial recognition or fingerprint and press Delete.
3. Click on Contac us to re-register your face or fingerprint.

Depending on the source of the problem, these solutions range from basic adjustments to advanced settings. If none of these resolve the situation, it is It is advisable to contact the manufacturer's technical support of your device, as it could be a physical failure in the hardware. Although you can also choose to contact the Windows 11 technical support.