I'm locked out of my Windows 11 PC because I forgot my PIN. I tried logging in with my fingerprint, but I hurt my fingers while rock climbing, so I couldn't get that to work. After a few failed attempts, I'm now forced to enter a PIN. Unfortunately, I changed my password manager recently, and the new setup lost the PIN details. There's no option for password login or other recovery methods. When I clicked 'I forgot my PIN', I realized that my NordVPN kill switch is activated, which prevents any internet connection, blocking me from resetting the PIN. I've tried starting in safe mode with and without networking, but I still can't access my account since I don't have the PIN. Ironically, I do have my BitLocker recovery key, but that doesn't help much in this situation. Am I completely out of options?
3 Answers
You might need to consider a fresh install if other options fail, but let’s try to avoid that as long as we can. There’s also a method to unlock the Hidden Administrator account if you can access the Command Prompt through the BitLocker recovery. Here’s a helpful link on how to do that: [Unlocking the Built-in Administrator](https://www.elevenforum.com/t/enable-or-disable-built-in-administrator-account-in-windows-11.709/#Five). This could be a better route instead of reinstalling everything, especially since you've got the BitLocker key!
Getting around this is definitely tricky, but don’t give up! Try following the steps to access the Command Prompt and enable the Hidden Administrator account. You’ll be able to disable the VPN kill switch from there and then reset your PIN. Just make sure to proceed with caution and good luck!
Since you have your BitLocker Recovery Key, you actually have a way to access your system. You can bypass the Windows Hello security by using the Command Prompt. Start up in Safe Mode and go to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Command Prompt. There's a classic trick where you can replace the Accessibility icon on the login screen with Command Prompt so you can gain access. Here’s how:
1. First, type: move c:windowssystem32utilman.exe c:windowssystem32utilman.exe.bak
2. Then type: copy c:windowssystem32cmd.exe c:windowssystem32utilman.exe
After this, reboot normally and click the Accessibility icon at the login screen — this should open CMD with SYSTEM privileges. From there, you can enable the Hidden Administrator account and reset your main account’s PIN without needing the VPN. Good luck!

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