How to log into your computer with your fingerprint or face

Using Biometric Authentication to Secure Your Computer

Forget typing passwords! Unlock your computer with your fingerprint or face using biometric authentication. While smartphones popularized this technology, it's also available on many computers, provided you have the right hardware. This method offers faster, more convenient access than traditional passwords. However, a strong password remains crucial as a backup should biometric authentication fail.

Windows Hello: Fingerprint and Face Recognition

Windows offers more biometric login options than macOS, under the Windows Hello initiative. However, compatibility depends on your hardware. Fingerprint login requires an integrated fingerprint scanner; face recognition necessitates a compatible webcam.

Hardware Requirements:

1. Check Compatibility: Open Settings, click the gear icon in the Start menu, then navigate to Accounts > Sign-in options. The presence of Face or Fingerprint options indicates compatibility. If not, you'll need to upgrade your hardware.

2. Upgrade Options: Consider a new Windows Hello-compatible computer, such as a Microsoft Surface Book 2, or upgrade your existing machine with a compatible fingerprint scanner (e.g., Microsoft Modern Keyboard) or webcam (e.g., Logitech Brio).

Setup:

1. Password Protection: Ensure you have a system password for your user account. If not, add one via Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > Password > Add.

2. Biometric Setup: In Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options, select either Face or Fingerprint. Follow the on-screen instructions to register your face or fingerprint.

3. PIN Code: Windows Hello will prompt you to create a PIN code as a fallback if biometric authentication fails. This PIN is only for the specific computer and doesn't unlock other parts of your Windows account.

4. Customization: Adjust Windows Hello settings in Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options. Options include automatic unlocking, and enhanced security features like requiring head movement to prevent unauthorized access.

macOS Touch ID: Fingerprint Recognition

macOS currently lacks face recognition but supports fingerprint login via Touch ID, available on newer MacBook Pro models with the integrated Touch Bar. Touch ID unlocks your Mac and authorizes access to password-protected Notes, Safari passwords, and certain System Preferences sections. Note that Touch ID only works after waking from sleep; a password is required after a restart or logout.

Hardware Requirements:

Touch ID is integrated into the Touch Bar, found on certain MacBook Pro models (specifically, the 15-inch model and the 13-inch model with the optional Touch Bar).

Setup:

1. Open System Preferences: Select Touch ID, then click the large Plus icon. Enter your account password for authorization.

2. Fingerprint Registration: Place your finger on the Touch ID sensor (far right of the Touch Bar) without pressing. Follow the prompts, adjusting your finger position slightly each time to ensure accurate recognition.

3. Multiple Fingerprints: Add multiple fingerprints if desired. You can individually enable each registered fingerprint for unlocking and Apple Pay authorization.

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