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Security Key Issue Regarding Laptop Pin

Tshauni Brown 20 Reputation points
2025-01-05T02:24:37.3133333+00:00

I recently had sent my laptop in to get fixed by its manufacturer regarding its battery and motherboard. When I recieved it, I tried logging in with my pin, however it says it is unable due to a security key being changed. I even cleared my TPM and restarted my laptop. I don’t want to lose any information on my laptop… I just want to be able to use my pin instead of password.

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  1. Daisy Zhou 28,231 Reputation points Microsoft Vendor
    2025-01-07T08:10:35.85+00:00

    Hello

    Thank you for posting in Q&A forum.

    This issue can occur after a hardware change because the security settings on your device have changed. Here are a few steps you can try：

    1. Delete the NGC Folder:

    • Navigate to C:\Windows\ServiceProfiles\LocalService\AppData\Local\Microsoft\NGC.

    • Delete all the files in the NGC folder. You might need administrative privileges to do this.

    • Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in Options and add a new PIN.

    1. Switch to a Local Account and Back:

    • Go to Settings > Accounts and select Sign in with a Local Account instead.

    • Follow the instructions to set up a local account.

    • Sign out and sign in with your local account.

    • Add a new PIN.

    • Switch back to your Microsoft account by selecting Sign in with a Microsoft Account instead.

    1. Safe Mode:

    • Boot your laptop into Safe Mode and see if you can set up your PIN there.

    • To enter Safe Mode, restart your laptop and press F8 (or the appropriate key for your device) before Windows starts. Select Safe Mode from the options.

    1. Reset Your PC:

    • If the above steps don't work, you might need to reset your PC. You can choose to keep your files during the reset process.

    • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery and select Reset this PC. Choose the option to keep your files.

    Reference:

    Unable to use pin after hardware change. - Microsoft Community

    I hope the information above is helpful.

    If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to let us know.

    Best Regards,

    Daisy Zhou

    ============================================

    If the Answer is helpful, please click "Accept Answer" and upvote it.

    1 person found this answer helpful.

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