How to Change Security Key PIN to Log into Apps in Windows 10
A security key (ex: YubiKey) is a physical device that you can use instead of your user name and password to sign in. Since it’s used in addition to a fingerprint or PIN, even if someone has your security key, they won’t be able to sign in without the PIN or fingerprint that you create. Security keys are usually available for purchase from retailers that sell computer accessories.
There are different types of security keys that you can use, like a USB key that you plug in to your device or an NFC key that you tap on an NFC reader. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the type of security key you have by reading the instruction manual from the manufacturer.
Starting with Windows 10 build 18298, you can now set up a security key straight from Settings that you can log you into applications.
When you set up a security key, you add a FIDO2 PIN that helps keep it safe. Your security key PIN can be changed or reset if needed.
This tutorial will show you how to change the PIN for your security key that can log you into applications for your account in Windows 10.
CONTENTS:
- Option One: Change Security Key PIN in Windows 10 Settings
- Option Two: Change Security Key PIN with YubiKey Manager
OPTION ONE
Change Security Key PIN in Windows 10 Settings
1. Open
Settings, and click/tap on the
Accounts icon.
2. Click/tap on
Sign-in options on the left side, and click/tap on
Security Key under
Manage how you sign in to your device on the right side. (see screenshot below)
3. Click/tap on the
Manage button. (see screenshot below)
4. Insert your security key (ex:
YubiKey) into the USB port. (see screenshot below)
5. Touch either the button or gold disk on your blinking security key. (see screenshot below)
6. Click/tap on the
Change button under
Security Key PIN. (see screenshot below)
7. Enter your current security key PIN, enter the new security key PIN, enter the new security PIN again to confirm, and click/tap on
OK. (see screenshot below)
8. Click/tap on
Close. (see screenshot below)
9. You can now close Settings if you like.
OPTION TWO
Change Security Key PIN with YubiKey Manager
This option will only work with a YubiKey security key.
1. If you haven't already, you will need to download and install
YubiKey Manager.
2. Open the
YubiKey Manager app.
3. Insert your YubiKey into the port (ex: USB) on your PC. (see screenshot below)
4. Click/tap on
Applications on the toolbar, and click/tap on
FIDO2. (see screenshot below)
5. Click/tap on the
Change PIN button under
FIDO2 PIN. (see screenshot below)
6. Enter your current security key PIN, enter the new security key PIN, enter the new security PIN again to confirm, and click/tap on
Change PIN. (see screenshot below)
The FIDO2 PIN must be at least 4 characters.
7. Click/tap on
OK. (see screenshot below)
8. You can now close YubiKey Manager if you like.
That's it,
Shawn