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I am giving my pc away. I want to change the pin for this device only. Is that ok? If so, how?

Donna C 0 Reputation points
2026-05-31T19:57:32.64+00:00

I am giving away a pc and want to clear out personal data starting with my pin. Can I change the hello pin for a specific pc?

If I remove the device from my MS account can I delete the folders?

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Windows Hello, lock screen and sign-in
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  1. EmilyS726 236K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-05-31T20:33:37.6233333+00:00

    Hello

    If you are giving the PC away, you should do a complete factory reset, just removing your account or PIN is not enough to protect your account and privacy.

    Hold down Shift key while you choose Windows restart option, then go to Troubleshoot > Reset this PC, choose the delete everything option. When it is finished, leave it, no need to set up. The next person can then set up with their own user.

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  2. AI answer

    2026-05-31T19:57:44.77+00:00

    Yes, the PIN can be changed per device, and it is also recommended to fully reset the PC before giving it away.

    To change or reset the PIN on that specific PC while signed in:

    1. Open the Settings app.
    2. Select Accounts > Sign-in options (or use this shortcut: Sign-in options).
    3. Under PIN (Windows Hello) select Change PIN and follow the instructions, or select I forgot my PIN to reset it and create a new one.

    However, just changing the PIN does not remove personal data. Before giving the PC away, reset Windows to remove files and apps:

    1. Back up anything that needs to be kept using Windows Backup.
    2. Open Settings > System > Recovery (or in Windows 10: Update & Security > Recovery).
    3. Under Reset this PC, select Get started.
    4. Choose the appropriate reset option and follow the on-screen instructions.

    After the reset, the device can also be removed from the Microsoft account so it no longer appears under the devices list:

    1. Go to https://account.microsoft.com/devices and sign in.
    2. Select the device, choose More actions > Remove, confirm removal.

    Removing the device from the Microsoft account does not itself delete folders on the PC; the proper way to clear personal folders and data is to use Reset this PC as above.

    References:

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