Experiencing Windows Hello PIN/Fingerprint "This option is currently unavailable"

Command Center

2 min read

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19-10-2024

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If you've encountered the message "This option is currently unavailable" while trying to set up Windows Hello PIN or Fingerprint, you're not alone. Many users face this frustrating issue when trying to access biometric features on their Windows devices. In this article, we'll delve into the reasons behind this problem, provide the original context, and offer practical solutions to help you resolve it.

Problem Scenario

When users attempt to set up Windows Hello for fingerprint recognition or a PIN, they may receive the following message:

"This option is currently unavailable"

This notification indicates that the biometric authentication option, which is designed to streamline the login process using facial recognition or fingerprints, is not available for some reason.

Understanding the Issue

Possible Causes

There are several reasons you might encounter the "This option is currently unavailable" error:

1. Hardware Issues: Your device's fingerprint scanner or camera might not be functioning correctly or may be incompatible with Windows Hello.

2. Driver Problems: Outdated or incompatible drivers can prevent Windows Hello from recognizing your biometric devices.

3. Group Policy Settings: On some computers, especially those in corporate environments, group policies may restrict access to Windows Hello features.

4. Windows Updates: Missing crucial updates can lead to functionality issues with Windows Hello.

Analyzing the Problem

To effectively address the problem, it's essential to understand your specific device and the environment in which it's being used. Confirm that your hardware supports Windows Hello. For fingerprint recognition, your device should have a compatible fingerprint reader, and for facial recognition, an infrared camera is typically required.

Practical Solutions

Here are some practical steps you can follow to troubleshoot the "This option is currently unavailable" issue:

1. Check Hardware Compatibility:

   • Ensure your device meets the Windows Hello requirements. You can check the manufacturer's specifications for compatibility.

2. Update Device Drivers:

   • Go to Device Manager.
   • Expand the Biometric Devices section.
   • Right-click your biometric device and select Update Driver.
   • Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.

3. Modify Group Policy Settings:

   • Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
   • Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Hello for Business.
   • Ensure the policies regarding Windows Hello are not disabled.

4. Install Windows Updates:

   • Open Settings and navigate to Update & Security.
   • Click Check for updates to ensure you have the latest patches.

5. Reset Windows Hello:

   • Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
   • Remove existing PIN or biometric settings and try setting it up again.

Conclusion

While the "This option is currently unavailable" message can be a hindrance to utilizing Windows Hello's convenient features, understanding the potential causes and applying the troubleshooting steps outlined can lead to a resolution. Keeping your drivers and Windows updated, as well as ensuring hardware compatibility, are key components in resolving this issue.

Additional Resources

For further assistance, consider checking the following resources:

• Microsoft's Official Windows Hello Documentation
• Driver Support by Manufacturer
• Microsoft Community Forums

By addressing these points, you'll be better equipped to overcome the challenges associated with Windows Hello setup. Happy troubleshooting!