Imagine launching Microsoft Edge for a quick browse, only to hit the frustrating "Windows Hello PIN" reset prompt that blocks your autofill, sync, or passwords. π© Don't worryβthis common glitch affects many users on recent Windows builds, but it's fixable with simple steps. Our guide delivers how to fix Microsoft Edge "Windows Hello PIN" reset efficiently, so you regain control fast. Stick around for proven methods, tips, and prevention to keep your browser humming smoothly.
π Understanding the "Windows Hello PIN" Reset Error in Microsoft Edge
The "Windows Hello PIN" error pops up when Microsoft Edge demands biometric or PIN re-authentication for secure features like password manager or profile sync. It often says "Something went wrong" or forces a PIN reset, stemming from credential mismatches post-updates. No more endless loopsβlet's dive into fixes that work on the latest Edge versions.
β οΈ Common Causes of the Error
- Corrupted Windows credentials cache.
- Recent Windows or Edge updates disrupting PIN services.
- NGEN folder issues or pending Windows Hello re-enrollment.
- Third-party antivirus interfering with credential providers.
Ready to troubleshoot? Start with the quickest wins. π
π§ Method 1: Reset Windows Hello PIN Directly (Fastest Fix)
This targets the rootβre-enroll your PIN to sync perfectly with Microsoft Edge. Success rate: 80%+ for most users.
- Press Win + I to open Settings β Accounts β Sign-in options.
- Under Windows Hello PIN, click Remove β Confirm.
- Click Set up β Follow prompts to create a new PIN (use 6+ digits, no special chars initially).
- Restart Edge, sign in, and test sync/passwords. β
If it persists, move to credential clearanceβyour next powerhouse fix. β‘οΈ
π§Ή Method 2: Clear Edge and Windows Credentials
Stale credentials cause most "Windows Hello PIN" resets in Edge. Wipe them safely:
| Step | Action | Why It Works |
| 1οΈβ£ | Run Win + R β control keymgr.dll β Delete all Edge/Microsoft entries. | Clears mismatched auth tokens. |
| 2οΈβ£ | In Edge: edge://settings/passwords β Turn off "Offer to save passwords" β Re-enable after reboot. | Resets autofill hooks. |
| 3οΈβ£ | Credential Manager β Windows Credentials β Remove Edge items like "EdgeSync". | Forces fresh authentication. |
Pro tip: Combine with Edge reset via Settings β Reset settings β Restore settings to default. Boomβerror gone! π
π‘οΈ Method 3: Run System Scans and Repairs (Advanced)
For stubborn cases tied to system files:
- Admin Command Prompt:
sfc /scannow β Enter β Restart.
- Then:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth.
- Delete NGEN folder:
C:\Windows\Microsoft.NET\Framework64\v4.0.30319\NGEN.exe β Uninstall all (safe, auto-rebuilds).
- Update Edge: edge://settings/help β Relaunch.
These commands repair corrupted files without data loss. If antivirus flags, add exceptions for Edge.
π Bonus: Update and Registry Tweak (If Needed)
Ensure Windows and Edge are latest via Settings β Update & Security. For rare PIN service glitches:
- Regedit β
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Authentication\LogonUI.
- Create DWORD:
NoLockScreen = 0 β Reboot.
Backup registry first! π
Still stuck? Check Microsoft's official Windows Hello guide or forums.
π‘οΈ Prevention Tips to Avoid Future "Windows Hello PIN" Resets
- Enable Edge profiles for work/personal separation. β
- Regularly update via Windows Update.
- Use a strong Microsoft account password as PIN backup.
- Avoid frequent PIN changesβstability first!
By now, your Microsoft Edge should be error-free, zipping through secure browsing. If one method clicked for you, drop a clap below! π Share this guide to save a friend from PIN hell. Questions? Commentβwe've got more tweaks ready. Happy browsing! π