In the modern age of digital security, the way users sign in to their devices has continually evolved, becoming increasingly intertwined with online platforms. With Windows 11, Microsoft has taken another step forward in this evolution by emphasizing the use of online Microsoft accounts for user sign-ins. Originating from the Windows 8 era, Microsoft has gradually amplified the prominence of these online accounts, making them almost indispensable in certain Windows editions. Traditionally, Windows users have been accustomed to using passwords to log into their computers. However, with the integration of Microsoft accounts, users now have the liberty to sign into any computer running Windows 8, 10, or 11 seamlessly. But this convenience doesn’t come without its nuances.
When you sign in with a Microsoft account for the first time, it mandates an active internet connection, primarily because the credentials are authenticated directly through Microsoft’s servers. Although the Microsoft account password is encrypted and cached locally for offline access, this can potentially be a double-edged sword. If compromised, malicious entities could decrypt the password and gain unhindered access to a treasure trove of personal data, encompassing everything from OneDrive contents and Skype chats to browser history and saved passwords.
But fret not, as Windows 11 offers you the flexibility to either embrace this method or opt for more traditional, perhaps perceived as safer, sign-in methods. This risewindows guide will demystify the steps to enable or disable the Password-less Sign-in for Microsoft Accounts on Windows 11. Delve in and discover two distinct methods to tailor your Windows 11 sign-in experience according to your preferences.
How to Enable or Disable Passwordless Sign-in for Microsoft Accounts using the Settings app?
Follow these steps to turn on or off Passwordless Sign-in for Microsoft Accounts using the Settings app:-
Step 1. Firstly, open the Settings app by pressing the Windows + I keys from the keyboard.
Step 2. When Windows Settings opens, select the Accounts category from the left sidebar.
Step 3. Then, on the right sidebar of Accounts, click on the Sign-in options.
Step 4. Next, turn on or off the “For improved security, only allow Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts on this device” toggle switch under the “Advanced settings” section.
When you turn this option ON, it will disallow password-based login to your computer. When you turn OFF this option, it will permit password-based login along with Windows Hello credentials.
How to Enable or Disable Passwordless Sign-in for Microsoft Accounts using Windows Registry?
Follow these steps to turn on or off Passwordless Sign-in for Microsoft Accounts using Windows Registry:-
Step 1. Firstly, open the Registry Editor.
Step 2. In the Registry Editor window, navigate to the following key from the left side pane:-
Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\PasswordLess\Device
Step 3. Then, double-click on the “DevicePasswordLessBuildVersion” on the right side pane to modify its settings. Then set the “Value data” as the following:-
- 2: Set “Value data” to “2” to only allow passwordless sign-in. That means you cannot log into your PC using the password.
- 0: When “Value data” is set to “0,” you can use a password to log in to the system.
Step 4. After that, click the OK button.
Step 5. Finally, restart your computer to apply the changes.
Conclusion
Windows 11, with its advanced features, also offers users flexibility in how they sign in. While Microsoft encourages online sign-ins for a seamless experience, it also understands the security concerns and the need for adaptability. Thus, the Password-less Sign-in feature is a testament to this. Users can choose between using the Settings app or the Windows Registry to adjust their sign-in preferences, ensuring that every individual can use Windows 11 in a manner that feels most secure and convenient for them.
