Windows 11 Dynamic Lock

How to enable Dynamic Lock on Windows 11

Windows 11 has a feature that automatically locks your PC to protect it from prying eyes, and here's how to enable it.

On Windows 11, Dynamic Lock is a security feature that locks your computer when you step away from your desk based on the proximity of a Bluetooth-paired device (such as your phone or wearable), adding another layer of security.

When you enable the feature and step away from the computer, Windows 11 will wait 30 seconds and if the Bluetooth device isn’t nearby, it will lock the account automatically.

Dynamic Lock has two parts. You first need to pair a Bluetooth device (such as your iPhone or Android phone) to the computer, and then you have to enable Dynamic Lock in the Settings app.

In this guide, you will learn the steps to enable Dynamic Lock on Windows 11.

Enable Dynamic Lock on Windows 11

To enable Dynamic Lock on Windows 11, use these steps:

  1. Turn on the Bluetooth device.

  2. Turn on the device’s Bluetooth pair option to make it discoverable.

  3. Open Settings on Windows 11.

  4. Click on Bluetooth & devices.

  5. Turn on the Bluetooth toggle switch to enable the wireless radio (if applicable).

  6. Click the Add device button.

    Bluetooth add new device

  7. Select the Bluetooth option.

    Windows 11 Bluetooth pairing option

  8. Choose the Bluetooth device from the list.

    Bluetooth device pairing

  9. Continue with the on-screen directions (if applicable).

  10. Click on Accounts.

  11. Click the Sign-in options tab.

  12. Select the Dynamic lock setting.

  13. Check the “Allow Windows to automatically lock your device when you’re away” option.

    Enable Dynamic Lock

Once you complete the steps, if your Bluetooth device isn’t near the computer, Windows 11 will wait 30 seconds and then turn off the screen and lock the account to secure your computer.

About the author

Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert and founder of (est. 2010). With over 21 years as a technology writer and IT Specialist, Mauro specializes in Windows, software, and cross-platform systems such as Linux, Android, and macOS.

Certifications: Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), VMware Certified Professional (VCP), and CompTIA A+ and Network+.

Mauro is a recognized Microsoft MVP and has also been a long-time contributor to Windows Central.

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