Why can't I use my fingerprint reader?

If you're having a problem using your fingerprint reader, check its status in Control Panel under Biometric Devices to get more info on what might be wrong.

To check the status of your fingerprint reader

  1. Swipe in from the right edge of the screen, and then tap Search.
    (If you're using a mouse, point to the upper-right corner of the screen, move the mouse pointer down, and then click Search.)

  2. Enter biometric in the search box, tap or click Settings, and then tap or click Biometric Devices.

  3. Find your fingerprint reader listed under Biometric Devices. The device's current status appears next to it.

Show all

My fingerprint reader is locked

Your fingerprint reader's status might be locked if an app is currently using it. This might happen if the app is being updated or is using the fingerprint reader for a specific task.

To unlock the fingerprint reader, close the app that's using it.

My fingerprint reader is unavailable

Your fingerprint reader might be unavailable for one of several different reasons:

  • If you're currently enrolling fingerprint data with your device, it will appear unavailable. Wait until enrollment is complete, and then try again.

  • If you're viewing the Biometric Devices Control Panel remotely, it won't work because you can't use a fingerprint reader remotely.

  • If something's wrong with the driver for your fingerprint reader, you can try to reinstall the driver to fix it.

    To reinstall the driver for your fingerprint reader

    Before following these steps, make sure you have a copy of the driver. The driver should be on a CD/DVD that came with the fingerprint reader or your PC (if the device came with your PC). You can also download the driver from the PC manufacturer's or the device manufacturer's website, or check for an update through Action Center or Windows Update.

    1. Swipe in from the right edge of the screen, and then tap Search.
      (If you're using a mouse, point to the upper-right corner of the screen, move the mouse pointer down, and then click Search.)

    2. Enter biometric in the search box, tap or click Settings, and then tap or click Biometric Devices.

    3. Tap or click Device Manager. Administrator permission required You might be asked for an admin password or to confirm your choice.

    4. Under Biometric Devices, open your fingerprint reader.

    5. Select the Driver tab, tap or click Update Driver, and follow the instructions.

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