Top 9 Ways to Fix Windows Hello Facial Recognition Issues on Windows 11

ByJim Miller

Facial recognition is a convenient and secure way to authenticate your identity on a laptop or desktop. However, if Windows Hello, Microsoft's biometric authentication feature, stops working, you may be left without access to your device. Don't worry, though. We've got you covered with these nine troubleshooting methods to fix Windows Hello facial recognition issues on Windows 11.

1. Check the Camera

First things first, ensure that your camera is not obstructed. Sometimes, users cover their laptop webcams for privacy reasons, which inadvertently disables the Windows Hello functionality. So, remove any tape or cover from your camera before attempting to sign in with Windows Hello.

2. Adjust Your Position

Windows Hello may not be able to scan your face correctly if you are sitting too far away from your laptop or desk. Find an ideal position where you are neither too far nor too near, and try authenticating with Windows Hello again.

3. Consider Lighting Conditions

If there is a significant amount of light behind you, Windows Hello might struggle to distinguish your face from the background. Close any windows behind you or relocate to a place with better lighting conditions. Once you've made these adjustments, try using Windows Hello again.

4. Improve Facial Recognition

Windows allows you to enhance the accuracy of Windows Hello facial recognition. Follow these steps:

  1. Open the Windows Settings menu (press Windows + I).
  2. Select “Accounts” from the left sidebar.
  3. Click on “Sign-in options.”
  4. Expand the “Facial recognition (Windows Hello)” menu.
  5. Select “Improve recognition.”
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to improve the facial recognition performance.

5. Reinstall Biometric Device Drivers

If you have corrupt or outdated biometric drivers installed on your laptop, Windows Hello may not work properly. Here's how you can reinstall the drivers:

  1. Right-click on the Windows key and open the Device Manager.
  2. Expand the “Biometric” devices menu.
  3. Right-click on “Facial Recognition (Windows Hello) Software Device.”
  4. Select “Uninstall device” from the context menu and confirm your decision.
  5. Restart your laptop, and the system will reinstall the required drivers during the reboot process.

6. Reinstall Windows Hello

If Windows Hello facial recognition still isn't functioning correctly, you can reinstall the feature on your laptop. Follow these steps:

  1. Open the Windows Settings menu (press Windows + I) and select “Apps” from the left sidebar.
  2. Select “Optional features” and search for installed features.
  3. Type “Windows Hello.”
  4. Expand the “Facial Recognition” menu and select the “Uninstall” button.
  5. From the same menu, select the “View features” button.
  6. Search for “Windows Hello” and select the checkmark beside it.
  7. Select “Next” and click the “Install” button from the following menu.
  8. Restart your laptop, and Windows Hello should work as expected.

7. Run Camera Troubleshooter

If there is an issue with your webcam, it can affect Windows Hello's performance. Windows 11 comes with a built-in camera troubleshooter that can help you fix these issues. Here's how to use it:

  1. Launch the Windows Settings menu.
  2. Select “System” from the left sidebar.
  3. Open the “Troubleshoot” menu and select “Other troubleshooters” from the following menu.
  4. Scroll and run the “Camera” troubleshooter on your laptop.
  5. Let Windows fix any issues and try using Windows Hello again.

8. Run Windows Security Scan

If you frequently download files from unverified sources, your PC may be infected with malicious files that can affect Windows Hello's functionality. To fix this, use the Windows Security tool to scan and remove any corrupt files:

  1. Press the Windows key and search for “Windows Security.”
  2. Select “Virus & threat protection” and run a quick scan on your PC.

9. Update Windows OS

Sometimes, a buggy Windows build can cause issues with Windows Hello. Microsoft regularly releases updates to address such issues. To troubleshoot Windows Hello, make sure to install any pending Windows 11 updates:

Go to “Windows Settings > Windows Update” and download the latest Windows 11 update for your laptop.

By following these troubleshooting methods, you can resolve Windows Hello facial recognition issues on Windows 11 and enjoy flawless authentication. Say goodbye to inconvenient methods like PINs and passwords, and embrace the ease and security of Windows Hello.