Removing the lock screen password in Windows 11 sounds pretty straightforward, but trust me, it’s a bit more fiddly than flicking a switch. I’ve been through it a few times, and sometimes Windows seems to have a mind of its own. Anyways, if you’re set on skipping that password prompt when you start your PC or wake it up, here’s how to do it — with a bit of context that actually makes sense (at least to me).
How to Remove Lock Screen Password in Windows 11
Basically, you want to tell Windows, “Hey, just take me straight to the desktop, no faffing about.” Should be easy if all goes to plan, but on one setup it worked a charm right away, and on another, I had to reboot after. Classic Windows — always making things a bit more complicated than they need to be.
Step 1: Open the Run Dialog Box
Hit Windows + R. Yep, that’s the combo. The Run box will pop up fast as. It’s the quickest way to get into the deep settings without sifting through menus. Pro tip: If nothing opens, try closing and reopening it — sometimes that does the trick.
Step 2: Enter the Command
Type netplwiz and press Enter. This will open the User Accounts window — the spot where Windows controls who logs in and how.
Step 3: Select Your User Account
Click on your username in the list. Be careful — choosing the wrong one can turn off the password for someone else’s account. I’ve copped a bit of a scramble doing this on a family PC once!
Step 4: Uncheck “Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer”
This is the big one. Untick that box. It’s like telling Windows, “No worries, I don’t want to bother with passwords anymore.”
Step 5: Confirm & Reboot
Click Apply, then OK. You might need to enter your current password to confirm — makes sense, right? After that, just reboot or wake up your PC, and it should go straight to the desktop without asking for a password.
Sometimes, on certain machines, it might not stick immediately after reboot, or Windows could reset some settings. Might need a quick Windows update or tweak in Security Settings, but generally, once you’ve done it, it stays put.
Tips for Making It Stick & Stay Secure-ish
- Keep in mind, ditching the password is easier, but not as secure. Do this only in safe spots — like your own house, not at a café.
- If you’re removing the password, at least set up a PIN or biometric login (like fingerprint or facial recognition). Quick access, but with a bit of security backing.
- Keep Windows updated. An out-of-date system can be more vulnerable — even if you’re not using a password.
- Yeah, back up your files. Just in case. It’s a bit of a hassle, but peace of mind’s worth it.
- If you change your mind later, you can always enable it again. Just head back into netplwiz and tick that box.
Quick FAQs
Can I keep using a PIN or fingerprint after removing the password?
Absolutely. Removing the password from login doesn’t touch your PIN or biometric options — they still work fine.
Does taking out the password mess with updates or anything system-wise?
No worries — Windows updates will carry on as usual. But sometimes, an update might reset some login settings, so just double-check if stuff acts weird afterward.
Does Windows remind me of the password if I forget it?
Not really, no. But there are third-party apps that manage and stash your passwords safely, if you’re worried about forgetting yours.
If I want to put the password back on, how do I do it?
Just go back into the netplwiz window, check that box again, and set a password. Easy as — but don’t forget it!
Can I skip the password just for certain accounts?
Yep. You can do it per account — just repeat the process for each one you want to tweak.
Summary
- Open the Run box with Windows + R
- Type
netplwiz - Select your user account
- Uncheck the box about entering a password
- Click OK and confirm
Hopefully, this saves someone a fair bit of bother. Just remember, security’s a balancing act. Convenience is great, but your data’s safety comes first. Good luck, mate!