How to create a PIN password in Windows 8 (Step-by-Step)

Create PIN

I’ve been using Windows 8 since its first release to the public back in 2011, but until recently I started using the PIN password feature to sign-in to the operating system. One thing that I really like is that it provides a quicker way to get access to my laptop that doesn’t have a touch screen; even better I like that I only have to use the keypad and as soon as you enter the last digit, I am already inside in front of the Start screen.

I do have to say that no matter which device or operating system, PIN password is less secure than a real password mix with numbers, upper and lower case letters and special characters.

I will not suggest a PIN to sign-in to Win 8, if you are using a tablet or any other touch-enabled device in a public where you are very concern about security, because as Microsoft said, smudges can be visible and could potentially reveal a PIN or a picture password. However, it still pretty safe for everyday use, if you use your computer with keyboard and mouse at your house.

Note: In touch-enabled devices, you could opt for a picture password, which is more secure than a PIN.

Instructions

Anyone using a smartphone today, it is probably using a PIN password already. This is typically a 4-digit code that someone have to type using the keypad to get access to a phone, bank account from an ATM, or in this case to Windows 8. Now that we are all in the same page, let’s get to the steps:

1. Use the Windows 8 Key - Small Monochrome +I shortcut to bring the Settings menu, from the bottom, click Change PC settings.

2. Navigate through the Users settings and click Create a PIN.

Windows 8 PIN

3. Confirm your current password. Yes, you need a password already set in your PC before being able to create a PIN or picture password — If you don’t have a password, you will not even see the option!

Password before PIN

4. Type the 4-digit PIN twice and click Finish.

Confirm 4-digit code

That’s all. To test use the Windows 8 Key - Small Monochrome +L shortcut to lock Windows 8 and try signing-in with your newly created access code. Oh, to remove PIN password simply go back to Users settings and click Remove.

Important: It is worth noting that picture and PIN password only work in front of a physical machine and neither of these methods will be available remotely.
About the author

Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 21 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].