I do have to say that no matter which device or operating system, PIN password is less secure than a real password mix with numbers, upper and lower case letters and special characters. I will not suggest a PIN to sign-in to Win 8, if you are using a tablet or any other touch-enabled device in a public where you are very concern about security, because as Microsoft said, smudges can be visible and could potentially reveal a PIN or a picture password. However, it still pretty safe for everyday use, if you use your computer with keyboard and mouse at your house.

Instructions

Anyone using a smartphone today, it is probably using a PIN password already. This is typically a 4-digit code that someone have to type using the keypad to get access to a phone, bank account from an ATM, or in this case to Windows 8. Now that we are all in the same page, let’s get to the steps:

  1. Use the  +I shortcut to bring the Settings menu, from the bottom, click Change PC settings.

  2. Navigate through the Users settings and click Create a PIN.

  3. Confirm your current password. Yes, you need a password already set in your PC before being able to create a PIN or picture password — If you don’t have a password, you will not even see the option!

  4. Type the 4-digit PIN twice and click Finish.

That’s all. To test use the  +L shortcut to lock Windows 8 and try signing-in with your newly created access code. Oh, to remove PIN password simply go back to Users settings and click Remove. All content on this site is provided with no warranties, express or implied. Use any information at your own risk. Always backup of your device and files before making any changes. Privacy policy info.