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How to Fix Windows Hello Bugs in the Windows 10 Creators Update: Step-by-Step Solutions

Windows Hello is a convenient way to sign into your Windows 10 device using facial recognition, fingerprint, or a PIN. However, after the Creators Update, some users have reported issues with Windows Hello not working properly. This can be frustrating, especially when you rely on it for quick access to your PC.

Fortunately, many common Windows Hello bugs can be fixed with simple troubleshooting steps. In this guide, we will walk you through easy-to-understand solutions to get Windows Hello working again.

Each step is explained in detail, so even beginners can follow along without confusion. Let’s get started and make Windows Hello reliable for you once more.

By the end of this article, you will know how to diagnose and solve the most frequent Windows Hello problems after the Creators Update.

Quick Note Before You Begin

Before diving into fixes, make sure you check a few things that can save you time:

  • Ensure your device supports Windows Hello. Not all Windows 10 PCs have the necessary hardware like infrared cameras or fingerprint readers.
  • Check for Windows Updates. Microsoft often releases patches that resolve known bugs.
  • Verify your device drivers. Outdated or corrupted biometric drivers can cause Windows Hello failures.
  • Ensure your Windows 10 version is up to date. The Creators Update should be installed fully without any pending restarts.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

This might sound simple, but restarting your computer can fix temporary glitches affecting Windows Hello. When you restart, your system refreshes all processes and drivers related to biometric authentication.

  1. Click on the Windows Start menu.
  2. Select the Power button.
  3. Choose Restart.
  4. Once your PC restarts, try signing in with Windows Hello again.

If Windows Hello still doesn’t work, move on to the next step.

Step 2: Run the Windows Troubleshooter for Hardware and Devices

Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter that can detect and fix problems with hardware like cameras and fingerprint sensors.

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Click on Update & Security.
  3. Select Troubleshoot from the left menu.
  4. Scroll down and click on Hardware and Devices.
  5. Click Run the troubleshooter and follow the on-screen instructions.
  6. After it finishes, restart your PC and test Windows Hello again.

This step helps identify if hardware issues are causing Windows Hello bugs.

Step 3: Check and Update Biometric Device Drivers

Windows Hello relies on biometric devices like cameras or fingerprint readers. If their drivers are outdated or corrupted, Windows Hello may fail.

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Look for categories like Biometric devices or Imaging devices.
  3. Right-click your biometric device (e.g., fingerprint sensor or camera) and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
  5. If Windows doesn’t find an update, you can visit your device manufacturer’s website to download the latest driver manually.
  6. After updating, restart your PC and try Windows Hello again.

Updating drivers ensures your hardware communicates correctly with Windows Hello.

Step 4: Reset Windows Hello Sign-in Options

If Windows Hello is still problematic, resetting your sign-in options can clear corrupted data and let you set them up fresh.

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Accounts and then Sign-in options.
  3. Under the Windows Hello section (Face, Fingerprint, or PIN), click Remove for each option you have set up.
  4. Restart your PC.
  5. Return to the same Sign-in options page and set up Windows Hello again by following the prompts.

This process can fix many configuration-related issues.

Step 5: Check Group Policy Settings (For Advanced Users)

Sometimes, Windows Hello might be disabled by group policies, especially on work or school devices.

  1. Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter to open the Local Group Policy Editor.
  2. Navigate to:
    Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Biometrics
  3. Double-click Allow the use of biometrics and ensure it is set to Enabled.
  4. Also check Allow users to log on using biometrics is enabled.
  5. If you make changes, click Apply and OK, then restart your PC.

If you don’t have access to Group Policy (e.g., Windows 10 Home), skip this step.

Alternative Method: Use the System File Checker

Corrupted system files can disrupt Windows Hello. Running the System File Checker (SFC) scans and repairs these files.

  1. Type cmd in the Windows search bar.
  2. Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  3. In the command window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  4. Wait for the scan to complete and follow any instructions if issues are found.
  5. Restart your PC after the process finishes.

This tool helps restore important Windows files that might be causing your problem.

FAQs About Windows Hello Bugs in Windows 10 Creators Update

Why does Windows Hello stop working after an update?

Updates can sometimes change system files or drivers, causing conflicts with biometric hardware. This is why updating drivers and resetting sign-in options often helps.

Is Windows Hello available on all Windows 10 devices?

No. Your device needs specific hardware like infrared cameras for facial recognition or fingerprint scanners for fingerprint login.

Can a PIN be used if Windows Hello biometric options fail?

Yes. A PIN is an alternative sign-in method and is generally more reliable if hardware is failing.

How do I know if my biometric hardware is working?

You can check in Device Manager under Biometric devices or Imaging devices. If there is a yellow exclamation mark, the device has a problem.

Will resetting Windows Hello delete my files?

No. Resetting Windows Hello only removes your biometric sign-in data, not your personal files.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all these steps and Windows Hello still does not function, consider the following options:

  • Contact Microsoft Support: They can provide deeper diagnostics specific to your device.
  • Check your device manufacturer’s support site: Sometimes firmware updates or device-specific fixes are necessary.
  • Consider rolling back the Creators Update: If the problem started immediately after the update, reverting to a previous version of Windows may help.
  • Use alternative sign-in methods: Until the issue is fixed, use a password or PIN to access your device.

Conclusion

Windows Hello is a great feature, but bugs can occur after major updates like the Windows 10 Creators Update. By following these step-by-step solutions—from restarting your PC and running troubleshooters to updating drivers and resetting sign-in options—you can resolve most common problems.

Remember to start with simple fixes and gradually move to advanced methods only if necessary. This approach saves time and avoids unnecessary complications.

If all else fails, don’t hesitate to seek official support or use alternative sign-in methods temporarily. With patience and these instructions, your Windows Hello should be up and running smoothly again.

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