Overview
Remote PIN reset for domain users is a common request, especially in environments managed by MDM (Mobile Device Management) solutions like Swif. However, due to technical and security limitations in Windows, it is not possible to remotely reset a domain user’s PIN. This article explains the reasons behind this limitation, what was attempted, and what options are available to users.
What Was Requested?
The goal was to allow administrators to remotely reset the Windows Hello PIN for a domain user—ideally, even if the device was locked or the user had forgotten their PIN. This would help users regain access without manual intervention.
Why Is Remote PIN Reset Not Possible?
1. No Supported Windows API or CSP
CSP (Configuration Service Provider):
Microsoft’s official documentation (PassportForWork CSP) does not provide any method to reset a user’s PIN remotely. CSPs can define PIN policies but cannot set or reset PIN values.PIN Reset Requires User Authentication:
According to Microsoft (PIN Reset Documentation), resetting a PIN always requires the user to authenticate (using password, smart card, or MFA). This process cannot be automated or triggered remotely by an admin.
2. Technical Attempts and Their Outcomes
Multiple technical approaches were tested, but none succeeded:
PowerShell & Command Line:
No PowerShell cmdlets or command-line tools exist for PIN management. Attempts to usenet user,dsregcmd, or WMI/CIM classes for PIN reset all failed—these tools do not support PIN operations.MDM Agent & System Commands:
The commandStart-Process "ms-settings:signinoptions-launchpinreset"only opens the PIN reset screen in Windows Settings, and only if a user is already logged in. It cannot be triggered at the lock screen or before login, and does not enforce a PIN reset.Credential Store & Registry:
The Windows Hello PIN is stored in a protected area (NGC container) that is inaccessible even to administrators or SYSTEM accounts. Attempts to modify or delete these credentials are blocked by Windows security services.No Programmatic Access:
There is no public or internal Windows API that allows an admin or MDM agent to reset or assign a new PIN value for a user.
3. Security Design
User-Driven, Not Admin-Driven:
Windows Hello PIN is designed as a user credential, not an admin-managed credential. Resetting a PIN is intentionally a user-driven process to protect user privacy and security.Multi-Factor Authentication Required:
PIN reset always requires the user to complete MFA, which cannot be bypassed or automated.
What Can Domain Users Do Instead?
Manual PIN Reset:
Users can reset their PIN themselves using the “I forgot my PIN” option on the Windows sign-in screen or from Settings → Sign-in options. This process requires the user to authenticate with their password or another method and complete MFA.Password Reset:
Admins can still reset a user’s domain password remotely. Once the password is reset, the user can log in and then reset their PIN if needed.
Impact and Supported Scenarios
Not Supported:
Remotely or programmatically resetting a domain user’s PIN via MDM or admin tools.
Forcing a PIN reset on a locked device or for a user who cannot log in.
Supported:
Users are resetting their own PIN after authenticating.
Admins are resetting domain passwords.
There is no impact on a domain user’s ability to use or manage their credentials through normal Windows processes. The only unsupported scenario is remote or automated PIN reset.
References
Summary Table
Scenario | Supported? | Notes |
Remote PIN reset by admin/MDM | ❌ | Not possible due to Windows security design |
User resets PIN via “I forgot my PIN” | ✅ | Requires user authentication and MFA |
Admin resets domain password | ✅ | User can log in and then reset PIN manually |
Automated PIN reset at lock screen | ❌ | No API or command available; user action required |
If you have further questions about credential management or device recovery, please contact your IT administrator or refer to the official Microsoft documentation.