I updated the BIOS on my MSI B450 Gaming Plus Max while setting up FACEIT because its requirements said a BIOS update was needed for TPM detection. Since then, Windows has been stuck at the sign-in screen. It says my PIN is no longer available, but trying to change the PIN or sign in with my password or email eventually returns me to the same screen with a generic error. I also tried Safe Mode, but that did not help. Is there a way to remove or reset the PIN without being able to access Windows Settings?
3 Answers
From the recovery options, try repairing Windows system files with SFC, then reboot. You can usually reach the recovery menu by holding Shift while selecting Restart, or by interrupting startup a few times. If SFC cannot run normally, use the recovery command prompt and target the Windows installation there. After repairing the files, try creating the PIN again.
You may need to remove the existing Windows Hello PIN from an elevated recovery command prompt or use System Restore if a restore point was created before the BIOS update. Be careful with reset or reinstall options because they can remove applications or data. If BitLocker is enabled, Windows may also ask for the recovery key after the firmware change.
If possible, connect through Ethernet and try signing in again so Windows can verify the account. Since you’re already using Ethernet, that probably isn’t the cause. The next practical step is to use Windows Recovery Environment to repair the sign-in components or access a command prompt, rather than repeatedly trying the same PIN screen.
I’m already connected by Ethernet, and it still gives me the same error.