Fixing the Windows 11 PIN Error: Quick Solutions for Login Problems

You’ve just powered on your Windows 11 machine, coffee in one hand, a to-do list that's ambitious at best, and BAM—hit with the cryptic message: “Something happened, and your PIN isn’t available.” Annoying, right? Don't worry; countless Windows users face this issue at least once. This guide will take you through not only what this problem is, but also why it happens and, most importantly, how to fix it in record time.

What’s the “PIN Isn’t Available” Error?​

Let’s first clarify: this error typically affects users who rely on Windows Hello PIN for login—a convenient feature that ties a numeric PIN locally to your device, making it more secure than traditional passwords. However, errors like this lock you out of your own PC, leaving you helpless on the login screen. Essentially, you're stuck outside, pressing your nose against the metaphorical glass.
Windows displays this message because it lost the ability to authenticate your PIN. The reasons can range from benign (glitches after a Windows Update) to more complicated underlying issues (damaged system files or corrupted TPM configurations).
Common culprits include:

• Windows Updates Gone Rogue: Sometimes, updates mess with components related to PIN management or the Trusted Platform Module (TPM).
• Corrupted PIN Data: Encrypted PIN credentials stored locally may have been compromised or damaged.
• Hardware Issues: Problems with the TPM chip (responsible for encrypting PIN data) can also cause authentication hiccups.
• Misconfigured Startup Options: Diagnostic Startup or Safe Mode might tangle systems that manage PINs.

Let’s not just talk about it, though; here’s how to fix it.

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QUICK FIXES TO LOG IN AGAIN​

1. Try a Simple Restart​

Yes, it sounds basic, but restarting your device often resolves temporary glitches caused by updates or processes misbehaving. Give your system the ol’ “have you tried turning it off and back on again?” treatment.

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2. Use Your Password or Other Sign-In Options​

Hopefully, you have a Microsoft Account password or a Local Administrator Account password that bypasses the PIN. These fallback methods act as your safety net. Can’t remember your Microsoft password? Head over to Microsoft’s password recovery page via another device.

TO DO:​

• On the login screen, choose "Sign-in options" under the PIN field.
• If available, select the password option and enter your credentials.

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3. Run Windows Built-In PIN Troubleshooter​

Microsoft anticipated PIN problems, which is why they included a step-by-step troubleshooter specifically for Windows Hello issues.

HOW TO USE IT:​

1. Start your device and, at the login screen, click “Reset PIN” or “I forgot my PIN.”
2. You’ll be prompted to enter your Microsoft account password.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to reconfigure a new PIN.

If you’re still locked out and can’t even access the reset options, proceed to the advanced fixes.

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ADVANCED FIXES FOR STUBBORN ERRORS​

4. Delete Corrupted PIN Data by Removing the NGC Folder​

The NGC folder is where Windows stores PIN-related data. If this data gets corrupted, the simplest solution is to wipe the folder and restart from scratch.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:​

1. Open File Explorer (if you’re logged into another administrator account).
2. Navigate to:
   C:\Windows\ServiceProfiles\LocalService\AppData\Local\Microsoft
3. Enable hidden items from the "View" tab.
4. Locate and delete the NGC folder.

Now, you’ll need to set up a brand-new PIN:

1. Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-In Options.
2. Under Windows Hello PIN, select "Add a PIN" or "Set up PIN again."

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5. Use Command Prompt to Access MSConfig and Switch Startup Mode​

For users whose error loops are tied to a Diagnostic Startup or a similar Modified Boot Mode, you’ll need to revert your MSConfig settings. Unsure if this applies to you? It’s a known reproducible cause of the error.

1. Access Command Prompt via Advanced Startup Options:
   • Press Shift + Restart from the login screen.
   • Navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Command Prompt.
2. Hack MSConfig via CMD:
   • Type diskpart and hit Enter.
   • At DISKPART>, use list volume to identify the Windows partition (note its drive letter, e.g., C.
   • Exit DiskPart by typing exit.
   • Execute the following lines (replace C: if your drive letter is different):
     
     Code:

     cmd cd /d C:\Windows\System32 copy cmd.exe utilman.exe

   • Close the prompt and restart your system. On the lock screen, click the Accessibility icon (lower right corner). This brings up Command Prompt.
   • Type msconfig and press Enter.
   • Set the startup mode back to Normal Startup, click OK, and reboot.
3. After logging in, undo the Command Prompt replacement:
   
   Code:

   cmd sfc /scannow

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6. Is Your TPM Acting Up?​

The TPM chip works behind the scenes in encrypting your PIN. If the TPM has issues, PIN authentication cannot function.

TPM RESET STEPS:​

• Boot into BIOS (usually pressing Esc, F2, or Delete after a restart).
• Navigate to Security > Trusted Computing (varies by manufacturer).
• Select Clear TPM or Reset TPM and confirm.
• Save and Exit BIOS, and let Windows restart. You may need to log back in using a password.

WARNING: Clearing TPM wipes all locally-stored encrypted data, including keys for BitLocker. Proceed cautiously.

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7. System Restore: Rewind the Clock​

Roll your system back to a previously functional state.

HOW TO DO IT:​

1. Boot into Recovery Mode: Shift + Restart > Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > System Restore.
2. Choose a restore point before the error occurred and follow the instructions.

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8. Reinstall Windows as a Last Resort​

If all else fails, reinstalling Windows 11 can bring your device back to life. Use the “Keep My Files” option if you don’t want to start from scratch.

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The Bigger Picture: What Causes These Errors?​

Errors like this highlight the delicate relationship between Windows Hello, system files, TPM, and updates. Despite its convenience, Windows Hello occasionally struggles post-update or when underlying dependencies (driver updates, BIOS changes) destabilize.
This isn’t just a Windows 11 issue, by the way. Windows 10 users faced this frequently after major feature updates. Thankfully, Microsoft designs fail-safes—like safe-mode logins, password overrides, and recovery options—to prevent users from being permanently locked out.

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Prevent Future PIN Issues​

1. Stay Updated, Carefully: Configure updates to occur at suitable times when troubleshooting downtime won’t wreck your schedule.
2. Backup Your NGC Folder Regularly: Though not a common practice, this can save you from reconfiguration headaches.
3. Use Multiple Login Methods: As great as PINs are, always have an alternative (Microsoft Account or password).
4. Monitor TPM Health: Secure Boot and BitLocker users should regularly review TPM settings to ensure stability.

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Wrap-Up​

The “Something happened and your PIN isn’t available” error is a jarring experience but is far from insurmountable. By using these techniques, you can regain access and hopefully prevent repeat occurrences. Got questions? Feel free to dive into the forums here on WindowsForum.com and drop your queries or share your experiences!

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Source: 9meters Something Happened And Your Pin Isn’t Available