How to Set Up Windows 10 to Login Automatically

One feature that is well-loved by many in Windows 10 is how fast you can log in to your computer using a simple four-digit PIN. This feature was initially introduced in Windows 8 and was carried over to its updated version. However, some people still find it time-consuming and want to automatically sign in their computers rather than typing in a PIN. 

If you’re one of these people, you have an option to automatically login to Windows 10.  This article will guide you on how to make Windows 10 login automatically so you won’t have to deal with the annoying login prompt when you start and restart your computer. 

How To Automatically Login To Windows 10 (Easy version) 

Important note: Before you set it up, be sure that you are using a non-shared computer or your computer is used in a trusted environment not to end up being exploited by someone else. It is best not to use it with laptops that you often operate outside of your home because if the device gets stolen, your files will be accessed immediately. 

1. Open the Run command by pressing and holding down the Windows + R key. 
2. On the Run command, type in netplwiz or control userpasswords2. Both commands will work. Click OK.

3. Uncheck the option that says, “Users must enter a user name and password,” and click the OK button. If it is already unchecked, click it twice to check and uncheck. Then press OK. 

4. After clicking the OK button, you will be directed to a new page that will ask for your login credentials. Enter your computer’s username and password and click the OK button. 

You’re all set! Now, whenever you start or restart your computer, you will see the sign-in screen but won’t be asked to put any information in. It will also bypass the lock screen. Keep in mind that this process will not work if you manually lock your screen using the Windows + L key. If you manually lock it, you will still need to sign in. 

How To Automatically Login To Windows 10 (Using the Registry Editor)

If you want to learn how to make Windows 10 login automatically, this is another method you can try. This is simply the longer version of the other process but will allow you to do everything manually, making it perfect for tech-savvy individuals. 

Important note: This method will edit the Registry of your computer. It is best to have a backup or a restore point on your computer before continuing. Having a backup will allow you to restore your computer if anything goes wrong along the way. 

1. Open the Run command dialog box by pressing Windows + R key. 
2. On the Run command box, type in regedit and click OK. This will open the Registry Editor. 

3. Once you’re on the Registry Editor, navigate to the Winlogon subkey by clicking the expansion markers (>) down the navigation tree found on the left side menu and open the following key branches.

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE > SOFTWARE > Microsoft > Windows NT >  CurrentVersion

Click on the Winlogon key found under the ”CurrentVersion” branch. 

4. Right-click on the value called DefaultUserName found on the right-side navigation on the screen. Then, clickThen, clickfy from the menu. 

5. You will be asked to put in your data. Edit the data text box to match your current username and click the OK button to save the value.

6. Next, edit the value “DefaultPassword.” Right-click on it and choose Modify. Follow step 5, but in this case, put in your password. However, there’s a slight chance that this value does not exist. If so, follow the steps below. 

If DefaultPassword Value Does Not Exist

7. From the menu on the top area of the Registry Editor, click Edit. Next, click New > String Value. 

8. Type in DefaultPassword into the name box provided on the right-side navigation screen and press Enter. 

9. Right-click on the value called DefaultPassword found on the right-side navigation on the screen. Click Modify from the menu. 

10. You will be asked to put in your data. Edit the data text box to match your current password and click the OK button to save the value.

Note: You can also do this step if the “DefaultUserName” value is missing.

Create The AutoAdminLogon Value If It’s Missing

11. On the menu found on the top part of your screen, click Edit > New > String Value.

12. Type AutoAdminLogon into the name box provided on the right side of the screen. Press Enter.

13. Right-click on the AutoAdminLogon value you created and select Modify found on the menu.

14. On the Value data box, check whether the value contains 1. If it has a 0, remove it and replace it with 1. Click OK. 

Note: Skip steps 12 and 13 if the AutoAdminLogon is not missing and found on the menu. 

15. Close the Registry Editor, and you’re all set. 

After the steps above, whenever you start or restart your computer, you won’t be asked to put any information and will be automatically signed in to your computer.  

Be Vigilant

By automatically logging in to your Windows 10, security vulnerabilities are increased. This is why you need to reconsider this feature, especially if you are using a laptop that you carry around wherever you go. However, it’s still up to weigh up your situation to meet your needs. If you still decide to set up automatic login, make sure to have other Windows 10 security measures in place.