Does macOS support logging on with a PIN like Windows Hello/Windows Hello for Business?

Does macOS have a built-in ability to support a 'PIN' credential, like Windows Hello/Windows Hello for Business, without having to rely on a third-party product be it software or hardware like YubiKey?


If yes:

  • Can someone point me to documentation that covers setting up PIN sign-in for macOS?
  • Can that PIN credential be used to login to the machine after a restart?


Thanks in advance!

Posted on Jun 13, 2024 7:11 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jun 13, 2024 7:30 AM

Technically speaking you can just change the user account password to a pin number 4 or 6 digits long if that is what you want. You won't get a special pin screen though.

click here ➜ Change the login password on Mac - Apple Support


There is no specific pin function on Mac, though you can access a Mac using bio-metrics such as a finger print if you have a compatible Mac or external keyboard with Touch ID.


Additionally, if you have an Apple Watch, it can be used to unlock the Mac also.


click here ➜ Use Touch ID on Mac - Apple Support

and here ➜ Unlock your Mac with your Apple Watch - Apple Support



4 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jun 13, 2024 7:30 AM in response to JuliusPIV

Technically speaking you can just change the user account password to a pin number 4 or 6 digits long if that is what you want. You won't get a special pin screen though.

click here ➜ Change the login password on Mac - Apple Support


There is no specific pin function on Mac, though you can access a Mac using bio-metrics such as a finger print if you have a compatible Mac or external keyboard with Touch ID.


Additionally, if you have an Apple Watch, it can be used to unlock the Mac also.


click here ➜ Use Touch ID on Mac - Apple Support

and here ➜ Unlock your Mac with your Apple Watch - Apple Support



Jun 13, 2024 7:30 AM in response to JuliusPIV

JuliusPIV wrote:

Does macOS have a built-in ability to support a 'PIN' credential, like Windows Hello/Windows Hello for Business• , without having to rely on a third-party product be it software or hardware like YubiKey?

At the moment, the closed I have seen, taking into the specific constrains mentioned " without having to rely on a third-party product be it software or hardware like YubiKey? "


Use Touch ID on Mac


Even using Touch ID, are very specific conditions that Must be Met.


Added Security Feature in macOS


macOS - Security - Apple


Mac app security enhancements


Protecting against malware in macOS





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Does macOS support logging on with a PIN like Windows Hello/Windows Hello for Business?

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