How to Restore Missing Password Hints in Windows 11

Are you scratching your head because the password hint feature on Windows 11 seems to be AWOL? For many users, this innocuous little feature—the password hint—is the friendly nudge that rescues them from the clutches of forgotten passwords. But when that lifeline vanishes, it can be a source of frustration. Grab your coffee because we’re delving into why the password hint might not show up on your Windows 11 system and, more importantly, how you can get it back.

---

What’s the Deal with Password Hints on Windows 11?​

Here’s the cold, hard truth: password hints are a feature limited to local accounts on Windows 11. This means they're incompatible if you’ve embraced the cloud-loving Microsoft Account ecosystem for logging into your device. Microsoft shifted emphasis towards connected, synchronized experiences through Microsoft Accounts—think OneDrive, Xbox, and Outlook—but left some old-school features like password hints tailored only for good ol' local accounts.
To put it in perspective, the password hint functions like a sticky note on your refrigerator—it doesn’t spill the whole secret, but it gives you just enough to remember vital details. However, if you’re using a Microsoft Account, the design philosophy pushes alternate recovery mechanisms (like email/phone-based two-factor authentication) over traditional password hinting.

---

Two Solutions to Bring Back the Password Hint​

Here are two no-nonsense ways to troubleshoot and restore the missing hint functionality:

1. Switch to a Local Account​

If you’re operating on a Microsoft Account and notice the password hint is MIA, you’ll first need to revert to a local account. Here’s how:

1. Open the Settings App:
   • Hit the Start Menu (Windows key) and select Settings from the list.
2. Navigate to Accounts Settings:
   • Select Accounts, then click on Your Info in the left sidebar.
3. Switch to a Local Account:
   • Look for the option “Sign in with a local account instead.” Once located:
     • Enter the desired username, password, and a password hint.
     • Click Next, and confirm by selecting Sign out and finish.
4. Check for the Password Hint:
   • Log in using the newly created local account credentials. That confidence-inspiring password hint should be visible on the login screen now.

If this sounds unfamiliar, think of it as reverting from the cloud to local storage—or taking your digital life offline.

---

2. Recreate Your Password​

For those sticking with a local account but still encountering the issue, recreating your password can also trigger Windows 11 to display the hint again.
Here’s your action plan:

1. Launch Settings and revisit the Accounts section.
2. Open Sign-in Options and expand the Password Section.
3. Click on Change Password and follow these steps:
   • Enter the current password to authenticate.
   • Set a new password and most importantly, add a password hint.
4. Save changes by clicking Next and Finish.
5. Sign out and head back to the login screen—the password hint should now be visible.

---

What if You’re Locked Out Entirely?​

Let’s talk about the worst-case scenario—being locked out and unable to log into the system. Sadly, if your password hint is unavailable because you're not logged into a local account or other glitches, you’ll need creative workarounds like:

• Third-Party Password Recovery Tools: Tools like PassFab or Lazesoft can help recover or reset Windows credentials.
• Windows Recovery Drive: Booting into a recovery USB drive and using advanced startup options to reset local account credentials might save the day.
• Microsoft Account Recovery: If you use a Microsoft account, head to the account recovery page online, and Microsoft will assist you in resetting your password.

---

How to Add a Password Hint in Windows 11 from the Start​

For first-time users or those setting up their system anew, keep these considerations in mind:

• Password hints are defined at the time of password creation for local accounts. During the account creation process, you'll be prompted to input this handy nudge.
• If you skipped adding the hint while setting up the account, no worries—just follow the password recreation steps listed above and add it in.

---

Why Are Microsoft Accounts Hint-Free?​

The absence of password hints when using Microsoft Accounts isn’t a glitch—it’s by design. Microsoft prioritizes security and has opted for recovery through email, phone, or authentication apps instead of using password hints for recovery. Digital ecosystems used via Microsoft Accounts are inherently tied to cloud services, thus requiring secure multi-factor processes instead of plain hints that might provide clever hackers a clue.

---

Bottom Line​

Password hints may seem like a small feature, but they can be essential for those of us who rely on that extra nudge to remember our login credentials. Windows 11’s somewhat rigid distinction between local and Microsoft accounts might explain why the feature has gone missing in action—but now you know how to bring back the hint when needed. Whether by switching to a local account or tweaking sign-in settings, you’ve got the tools to reclaim this simple yet effective functionality.
So, if you’ve missed those "Oh, now I remember!" moments on the login screen, give these solutions a shot. Let us know in the comments: Do you think password hints should also be integrated into Microsoft Accounts or left as a local account exclusive? Debate away!

---

Source: Windows Report Password Hint Not Showing on Windows 11: How to Get it Back