There’s a trick to getting around Microsoft lockouts. Here’s how to do it.
By default, logging into a Windows 10 or 11 computer using your Microsoft account is something you have to do every time you start using the computer. Filling in some sort of password is, of course, important for security reasons. The password makes it harder for a thief to get into your computer and it’s a must for laptops that you take with you to other places. On the other hand, for computers that are stationary on your desk at home, having to type in a password every time you use your computer can be unnecessary.
In the past, it has been possible to opt out of logging in via a tool called Netplwiz, but with the Windows 11 update, the ability to set this has changed. The option “User name and password must be entered to use the computer” has disappeared on many computers. The reason why Microsoft has made it more difficult to log in automatically is, of course, to increase security.
However, for the desktop computer, there is still the possibility to do the login automatically, but it requires two extra steps. Here’s how to do it:
How to log into Windows 11 automatically
- Open Windows Settings via the Start button in the bottom left corner or by using the keyboard shortcut Windows+I. Then go to Accounts in the left-hand menu.
- Select the Login Options and make sure that the feature For improved security, you should only allow sign-in with Windows Hello for Microsoft accounts on this device (recommended) is turned off. You can do this with the slider on the right. Once you have done this, the settings will work exactly as before:
- Use Search-tool in Windows (the magnifying glass next to the Start button) and type “Netplwiz” Netplwiz. In the search result, click on the icon that has two people and a key.
- Remove the tick in the box User name and password must be entered for use of the computer and click Apply.
- Now you will have to enter a username, i.e. your local account or your Microsoft account. Type in your password and confirm with OK. The next time you start your computer, you will be automatically logged in with these details.
