When you fresh install Windows 11/10 on a computer, it lets you set up a PIN just before you can start using it. In case the Windows 11/10 Installation gets stuck on “Set up a Pin”, then this guide will help resolve it. When in this scenario, users have reported that the screen stays-
- Even if they enter the correct PIN twice.
- There is no way to go forward and backward.
This is part of the account setup, and the computer should stay connected to the Internet before everything is finalized. While the PIN works even when the computer is offline, the account setup definitely needs an Internet connection—at least for a fresh installation.
Windows installation stuck on Set up a Pin
The solution is rather easy. Since your installation is complete, and all that is left is account setup, even if your computer reboots or shuts down, there will not be any problem. However, you first need to turn off the internet or disable all connectivity from the computer.
If you are using a WiFi switch or ethernet cable to connect to the internet, disable and remove it. If you don’t have any of these options, it’s best to turn off the internet completely.
Next, force your computer to shut down and reboot it. The setup process will pick up exactly from where it left off. The only change is that there is no internet connectivity. This time, the screen will not be stuck on the PIN setup screen, and you can skip it. So wait till you are logged in for the first time.
You can then choose to Setup Pin later. Later, you can turn on the internet connection or connect your computer to the internet.
These issues are silly in nature, and Microsoft needs to fix them or at least give the option to skip where the internet is not necessary.
Read: Windows Hello keeps asking me to set up a PIN in Windows.
What to do if I can’t see where to enter the PIN?
Sometimes, the PIN prompt window gets hidden. You must press ALT + Tab to bring it up from the background. If you can’t see that, it’s best to turn off the internet and then install Windows.
Why is Windows not taking PIN even when entered?
Type in the 4-digit PIN, press the tab, re-input the same four digits, and press Enter. If you get lucky, it will take your PIN. Press the alt-tab again, and if the box is gone on the thumbnail view, it takes it. If the thumbnail has red writing, it doesn’t work. Close the box using the red X while holding down the alt-tab. Windows will kick you back a screen, and you can try again.
