How To Fix “Something Happened And Your Pin Isn’t Available” Error on Windows

Introduction

Encountering the 'Something happened and your PIN isn’t available' error on Windows can be a frustrating roadblock, preventing you from logging into your PC. This guide demystifies the process of resolving this common Windows error without the need for a complete system reset. Learn how to use the SHIFT key restart method for advanced troubleshooting options and make simple yet effective registry edits to bypass this issue. Our step-by-step instructions are designed to get you back into your Windows account quickly and efficiently, restoring normal access without the use of a PIN.

Performing a Shift Restart to Troubleshoot Windows Error

Resolving the 'PIN Not Available' Error with Safe Mode Restart:

Encountering the 'Something happened and your PIN isn’t available' error can block access to your Windows PC. However, a simple and effective method to start the troubleshooting process without resetting your PC is available.

Steps for Shift Restart on Windows:

1. Access the Login Screen: On your Windows login screen, where you usually enter your PIN.

2. Initiate Shift Restart: Press and hold the SHIFT key on your keyboard.

3. Use Power Options: While still holding the SHIFT key, navigate to the power button, typically located at the lower right corner of the login screen.

4. Select Restart: Click on the power button and choose 'Restart' from the pop-up menu. Ensure you keep holding the SHIFT key during this process.

What Happens Next:

• The SHIFT key restart initiates Windows in Safe Mode or brings up advanced troubleshooting options.

• This special restart method is designed to resolve issues like the PIN error by accessing deeper system settings.

Restart PC while holding shift

Navigating to Registry Editor for PIN Error Resolution

Using Advanced Options to Resolve Windows Login Issue: When faced with the 'Something happened and your PIN isn't available' error, accessing the Registry Editor is a key step in the troubleshooting process. This approach is taken after initiating a special restart of your Windows PC.

Steps to Access Registry Editor:

• Enter Advanced Options: After the SHIFT restart, you'll see a blue window with several options. Click on 'Troubleshoot', then proceed to 'Advanced Options'.

Choose and option > Troubleshoot

• Open Command Prompt: In Advanced Options, select 'Command Prompt' to open it.

• Launch Registry Editor: In the Command Prompt window, type “regedit” and press Enter. This action opens the Registry Editor.

• Navigate to the Specified Path: In the Registry Editor, go to this path: Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WindowsNT\CurrentVersion\PasswordLess\Device.

• Use Address Bar for Easy Access: You can copy and paste the above path into the Registry Editor's address bar for quicker navigation. This location in the registry is specifically linked to the PIN error on your Windows PC.

Navigate to the Registry Editor path

Modifying Registry Value to Fix PIN Error

Adjusting Registry Settings for Error Resolution:

In some cases, altering a specific value in the Windows Registry can effectively resolve the 'Something happened and your PIN isn't available' error. This process involves changing a data value related to the login settings.

Steps to Change the Registry Value:

1. Locate the Relevant File: In the Registry Editor, find and double-click on the DevicePasswordLessBuildVersion file.

2. Edit Value Data: In the pop-up window, you'll see a field labeled 'Value Data'. Change this value to 0.

3. Save and Exit: Click 'OK' to save the changes. Then, close both the Registry Editor and the Command Prompt windows.

Change the value data from 2 to 0

Restarting Your PC:

• After making these changes, you'll return to the 'Choose An Option' screen.

• Select 'Continue' to restart your PC normally.

• Upon restart, the PIN error should be resolved, allowing you to access your Windows PC without the need for a PIN.

This registry modification is a targeted solution for the specific error regarding PIN unavailability in Windows, and it should be performed carefully to avoid affecting other system functionalities.

Continue to restart your Windows PC

• What causes the 'Something happened and your PIN isn’t available' error in Windows?

  This error typically arises due to system file issues or glitches within Windows security settings that affect PIN authentication.

• How can I fix this error without resetting my PC?

  Perform a SHIFT restart and access the Registry Editor to modify specific values that could be causing the error. This method avoids the need for a complete system reset.

• Is it safe to modify the Registry Editor to fix this error?

  Yes, it's generally safe if you follow the instructions carefully. However, incorrect modifications in the Registry Editor can lead to other system issues.

• What should I do if the error persists after modifying the Registry?

  If the error continues, consider using alternative login methods like a password or Microsoft account, and then troubleshoot further or seek technical support.

• Can this issue be prevented in the future?

  Regular system updates and avoiding abrupt shutdowns can help prevent such errors. Keeping a backup of your important data is also advisable.