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How to set up Windows Hello in Windows 10

Windows Hello is a new feature in Windows 10 that brings biometric security into your daily life. If you really want to be protected from unwanted access, using this tool is your go-to solution. Assuming you have the right hardware, you can set up facial recognition and fingertip scanning on your computer.

While many devices come with this technology built in (like Apple’s Face ID), in order to do this in Windows, you need a special camera like Intel RealSense, as well as a fingerprint reader. The next step is to set up Windows Hello to recognize you and apply the security you want.

If you don’t know how to properly set up Windows Hello, look no further. This article will guide you through all the steps to successfully configure your device to be recognized.

How to set up your webcam for Windows Hello
Step 1. Check your device compatibility
As mentioned above, you need a compatible webcam device to use Windows Hello. Modern laptops like the Surface Pro 6 have these cameras built in. However, if you’re using an older laptop or desktop, you’ll need an external webcam.

Windows Spotlight lock screen not changing
Fortunately, Microsoft has a page for devices that are compatible with Windows Hello. You can also check compatibility manually by opening the Start menu and going to Settings, then looking up Windows Hello. If you don’t see an option for Settings, your camera most likely doesn’t support the feature. Don’t worry, you can always buy and connect a camera that can be used for Windows Hello.

Step 2. Verify your identity
After connecting a compatible external camera or verifying that your laptop supports Windows Hello by default, you can continue by clicking the Configure button. The first thing you need to do is verify your identity before you can set up facial recognition.

Windows 10 will ask you to enter an existing password to prove that you have authorized access to this device. It could be your Microsoft account password or a PIN code you’ve set up.

Step 3. Scan your face
After passing the initial verification, you will be able to scan your face for Windows Hello. This will give the computer the best view of your face which it can then use to recognize you in a split second.

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Let me share some tips to efficiently calibrate facial recognition:

Be sure not to alter your usual appearance too much. For example, don’t take off your glasses or sit in a hairstyle you don’t wear often. Remember that Windows Hello should recognize your usual appearance when you sit in front of your computer.
Stay in a well-lit room. Most people prefer to do this step during the day with plenty of natural light for the best possible image quality. This will also help Windows Hello recognize you more easily.

Keep your face centered in the frame displayed on the screen. Make sure you are facing the screen directly and looking directly into the webcam.
After successfully scanning your face, you have the option to adjust unique features if needed. The whole process should take between 1 and 2 minutes maximum.

Step 4. Improve recognition for easy access
You can further improve facial recognition by clicking the Improve recognition message on the next page. This will give Windows Hello more information about your face, making it easier and faster to accurately detect your face.

Improving recognition with and without these accessories can save you a lot of time, especially if you use a cheaper webcam. If you don’t want to have to constantly change your appearance to unlock your computer, be sure to improve recognition.

 How to set up a fingerprint reader for Windows Hello
Step 1. Connect the external fingerprint reader
If your device doesn’t come with an internal fingerprint reader, you’ll need to connect one yourself. These readers can be purchased at an affordable price and connected to your laptop or PC through a USB port. Once connected, Windows 10 will need to install the correct drivers, which should take a couple of minutes.

Step 2. Set up your fingerprint reader

To do this, you’ll need to open the Start menu and then click Settings. Use the search function and type Fingerprint .

Once you get to this menu, you will simply have to click on the Set up fingerprint login option. This will automatically take you to the page where you need to be to begin setting up a fingerprint-based security system.

Step 3. Scan your fingers
When you open Windows Hello settings, you’ll need to verify your identity with a password or PIN code. You will see a detailed explanation of how the system works, then you will have the option to Get Started. You will need to swipe or tap your fingerprint reader to scan your fingerprint in Windows 10.

If you wish, you can add additional fingers to use the fingertip scanner. This makes Windows Hello even more accessible, allowing you to use your other hand or different fingers when needed. You can unlock your computer even without having a webcam.

Enabling Windows Hello on your device will significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access.

 

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