Sign-in & Login Problems

How to Fix Windows 11 PIN Unavailable After Hardware Change

Kushani Nimanthika Oct 12, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is unable to log into Windows 11 because the PIN is unavailable following a hardware or security setting change.

How to Fix Windows 11 PIN Unavailable After Hardware or Security Change

Product: Windows 11
Device & OS: Windows 11
Scenario: Trying to log into the computer after replacing a motherboard or altering security settings.
Observed behavior: The system displays a message stating the PIN is unavailable, blocking access to the computer and personal files.

Before you start

Ensure your device is connected to the internet to authenticate any account changes. Do not attempt to delete your Windows profile or reset the PC before you have securely backed up your important files.

Solution 1Recommended

Reset Your PIN Using Windows Sign-in Options

Use your Microsoft account password to verify your identity and set up a new PIN directly from the lock screen.

When hardware changes occur, Windows may invalidate the PIN for security reasons. You can safely recreate it using your Microsoft account credentials.

Access Sign-in Options

Click on 'Sign-in options' located just below the PIN entry field on the Windows lock screen.

Sign In with Password

Select the Microsoft account password icon and enter your password to sign into your desktop.

Navigate to Account Settings

Once logged in, open the Start menu, go to Settings, click on Accounts, and then select Sign-in options.

Remove and Set Up New PIN

Under 'PIN (Windows Hello)', select 'Remove' if the option is available. Then, click 'Set up' to create a brand new PIN.

Verify Identity

Follow the on-screen prompts to verify your Microsoft account through your secondary email or phone number, and establish the new PIN.

Reset Your PIN Using Windows Sign-in Options

Verification Required: You may be asked to verify your Microsoft account using an alternative email or phone number during this process.

Solution 2

Contact Microsoft Support for Advanced Recovery

If resetting the PIN fails, reach out to the official Windows Support team for further assistance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Windows 11 PIN unavailable after changing my motherboard?

Windows ties your PIN to a hardware security module called the TPM (Trusted Platform Module). Replacing the motherboard changes the TPM, causing Windows to invalidate the old PIN for security reasons.

Can I bypass the PIN using my Microsoft account password?

Yes. By clicking on 'Sign-in options' on the lock screen, you can choose the password icon to log in with your Microsoft account password instead of a PIN.

Will I lose my files if I reset my Windows 11 PIN?

No, simply resetting or recreating your PIN through the Windows sign-in options will not delete any of your personal files or applications. Avoid resetting the entire PC to keep your data safe.

Login & Account Issues