I've been dealing with a frustrating issue on my HP laptop running Windows 11. I'm using a local account, not linked to a Microsoft account, and after entering the wrong PIN multiple times, I'm now stuck with a message saying I have to wait 2 hours or use another sign-in method every time I boot up. This has been an ongoing problem for months! I'm unable to reset my PIN because though I know it, the system won't let me change it. I don't remember setting a password, and there's no option to reset it either. I can't set up fingerprint or facial recognition—it just tells me 'we can't do this right now.' I've tried to switch to a Microsoft account, but that option is also disabled. Even attempts to enable passwordless sign-in are failing. Is there any way to resolve this?
4 Answers
The solutions are definitely out there! But I want to mention that you most likely set up a password at some point—it’s a requirement when you enable the PIN. If you haven't used it in a while, it might just be a matter of trying a few options you think could be the password.
If you're fed up, one option is to just start fresh. Make a bootable Windows installer on a USB drive, and do a clean install of Windows. Just make sure you back up all your important data first! You should also download the necessary drivers for your laptop before you wipe everything. When setting up your new account, pay attention to creating a solid password to avoid this mess again.
Sounds like your local profile might be corrupted. When you enter the wrong PIN too many times, a flag is set, and it usually resets when you log back in successfully. Since you keep getting the wait message, that flag isn't clearing. You could create a new local profile and sign into that instead. Use a password instead of a PIN this time. Once you're in, copy your documents and pictures from the old profile to the new one, then delete the old profile. That should do the trick!
Honestly, if this has been a problem for months, I’d recommend checking if a System Restore point is available that could bring your system back to a state before this started happening. If that doesn't work, you're all left with the option of creating a new account while still logging in with your current one after the waiting period.
Totally agree! Starting fresh can often be the easiest solution when you’re dealing with stubborn system issues.