How to Switch from Pon to Password on Windows 10

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Windows 10 offers various ways of logging in to your account, and one of the most convenient methods that users often use is via PIN. However, some users might want to change their login method to password instead of PIN. The process of switching from PIN to password is simple, and this blog will walk you through it.

Video Tutorial:

Why You Need to Switch from Pon to Password on Windows 10

There might be various reasons why users want to switch from PIN to password. One thing is that PIN can only be used on the device where you enable it. Also, it is hard to remember multiple PINs if you use them across multiple devices. Additionally, some users prefer to use a password for logging in because it gives them a sense of security as opposed to a four-digit PIN. Lastly, people might find the process of entering a password easier to complete when they are in a rush compared to entering a PIN.

Method 1: Via Settings

One method to switch from PIN to password is via settings, and it involves the following steps:

  1. Click on the ‘Start’ button or press the Windows key on your keyboard.
  2. Select the ‘Settings’ icon (gear icon) from the start menu.
  3. Scroll down the page and select the ‘Accounts’ option.
  4. In the left menu bar, click on the ‘Sign-in options.’
  5. Scroll down, and you will see the ‘PIN’ option. Click on ‘Remove.’
  6. You will be prompted to enter the current PIN to continue with the process, and then a notification will appear informing you that your PIN is no longer available.
  7. The option to set up a password will appear on the same screen. Click on ‘Add.’
  8. Enter the password you want to use for your account.
  9. Click on ‘Next’ and re-enter the password to confirm it.
  10. Click on ‘OK,’ and you will be redirected to the sign-in options menu.
  11. Select ‘Password’ as your sign-in method to complete the process.

Pros:

  • The process is easy to follow and can be done in a few minutes.
  • The option to set up a password is available immediately after removing the PIN.

Cons:

  • You need to know the current PIN to remove it, which can be challenging if you forgot it.

Method 2: Via Command Prompt

You can also switch to password using the command prompt, which involves the following steps:

  1. Open the command prompt by pressing ‘Windows key + X,’ and then select ‘Command Prompt (Admin).’
  2. Type ‘net user’ and press enter.
  3. Take note of the account name you want to change the login method.
  4. Type ‘net user youraccountname *’ and press enter.
  5. Enter the new password you want to use for your account when prompted to ‘Type a password for the user.’
  6. Confirm the password by re-entering it when prompted with ‘Retype the password to confirm.’
  7. If successful, you will see a message saying ‘The command completed successfully.’
  8. The next time you log in to your account, you will be prompted to enter your new password.

Pros:

  • You don’t have to go through the settings menu to switch from PIN to password.
  • The process is quick if you are familiar with the command prompt interface.

Cons:

  • If you type the command incorrectly, you might not be able to access your account.
  • You have to remember the account name, and it might not be easy to type depending on the length and complexity.

Method 3: Via Control Panel

The third method to switch from PIN to password is via the control panel, and it involves the following steps:

  1. Press the ‘Windows key + R’ to open the ‘Run’ dialog box.
  2. Type ‘control’ and press enter.
  3. Select ‘User Accounts’ from the control panel window.
  4. Select ‘User Accounts’ once more from the next page.
  5. On the left-hand side of the screen, click on ‘Remove your password.’
  6. Enter your current PIN (if applicable) to continue the process.
  7. Select ‘Remove Password’ and wait for a moment until the password is removed from your account.
  8. Next, go back to the User Accounts page, and click on ‘Create a password.’
  9. Enter the new password you want to use for your account.
  10. Confirm the password by re-entering it when prompted with ‘Retype the password to confirm.’
  11. You will receive a notification telling you that your password has been set.

Pros:

  • You can use this method even if you forgot your current PIN.
  • The control panel method is user-friendly and easy to navigate.

Cons:

  • It might take some time to remove the password, depending on the complexity of your current PIN or password.
  • The options to remove and add a password are not available on the same page, which can be inconvenient.

What to Do If You Can’t Switch from PIN to Password

If you are unable to switch to password despite trying all the methods above, here are some fixes to try:

  • Restart your device and try again. Sometimes, a restart can help alleviate the problem.
  • Ensure that all the updates for your device are installed. An outdated system can cause unexpected issues.
  • Try to switch to another account if you have one on your device. It could be that there is an issue with your current account.
  • Check if you have administrative rights to switch from PIN to password. An account without admin rights might cause restrictions.

Bonus Tip

If you have a Microsoft account, you can use it to log in to your device without using a password or PIN. You will need to use the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone for verification. This method is called Windows Hello, and it is a great option if you want a password-free alternative for your account.

5 FAQs

Q1: Can I switch back to PIN later if I change my mind?

A: Yes, you can switch back to PIN later by following the same steps as switching from PIN to password.

Q2: What if I forgot my current PIN or password?

A: If you forgot your PIN or password, you will need to follow the instructions for resetting it by clicking on the ‘Forgot my PIN’ or ‘Forgot my password’ options. You can choose to reset it using a recovery email or phone number.

Q3: What if I prefer to use a picture password instead?

A: You can set up a picture password by going to the control panel and selecting ‘User Accounts,’ then ‘Make changes to my account in PC settings.’ Next, click on ‘Sign-in options,’ and select ‘Add a picture password.’

Q4: Which is more secure, PIN or password?

A: Passwords tend to be more secure than PINs because they are longer and more complex. PINs are also limited to only four digits.

Q5: Is switching from PIN to password reversible?

A: Yes, you can switch back to PIN later if you change your mind.

Final Thoughts

Switching from PIN to password on Windows 10 is an easy process that you can complete in a few minutes using any of the three methods. Remember, passwords tend to be more secure compared to PINs. If you have any trouble switching or prefer a password-free alternative, consider using Windows Hello with the Microsoft Authenticator app to log in to your device.

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