With Windows Hello, you can ensure the security of your PC against potential snoopers and safeguard your data. Numerous Windows laptops, particularly those in the budget category, offer only basic PIN or password unlocking options. This scenario applies to PCs across all budget ranges. However, this can be altered by enabling remote unlocking of your Windows PC or laptop via the fingerprint scanner on your Android smartphone.
Even if your machine is equipped with a fingerprint sensor, the convenience of remotely unlocking a Windows PC using your Android phone’s fingerprint scanner is exceptional. You can even impress your colleagues and friends with this functionality. Now, let’s explore how to set it up.
Is it safe to use remote fingerprint unlock?
Before we delve into the process of unlocking your Windows PC remotely with the fingerprint scanner on Android, let’s also address the safety considerations. We will be utilizing the assistance of a third-party app in this guide, which only necessitates the following permissions:
- Access to Wi-Fi connection information
- Access to Bluetooth settings
- Network access
- Ability to prevent the device from sleeping
- Permission to install shortcuts
And if you’re comfortable proceeding with it, let’s continue with the guide. However, it’s worth noting that numerous other apps offer similar functionalities. If you’re considering any of those options, it’s advisable to take into account the following tips:
- Encryption and Secure Connections: Make sure to verify the encryption protocols used for establishing a secure connection between your Android device and Windows computer. Apps lacking encryption may leave your device susceptible to hacks, potentially leading to data theft.
- Backup Login Options: Although it may seem unnecessary, having backup remote unlock options such as a password or PIN can be useful in instances where your fingerprint isn’t recognized properly by the scanner.
- Secure Wi-Fi Network: Certain apps necessitate both devices to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Therefore, ensure that you connect the app and your Windows laptop to trusted and secure networks. Unknown or unprotected networks present easy opportunities for hackers to breach your system and pilfer your data.
- Download from Trusted Sources: It’s recommended to download apps from the Google Play Store, as they undergo thorough security checks before being listed. However, if you opt to download the app from other third-party sources, ensure the source’s credibility and trustworthiness.
- Device Security: These security measures will be ineffective if your Android phone isn’t protected with a PIN, pattern, or password lock. Hence, it’s imperative to implement these security measures beforehand.
Remote Fingerprint Unlock System Requirements
To proceed, make sure your devices meet the following requirements:
- Windows: Chipsets running x86 or x64 architectures. It should be running Windows Vista or later. For ARM users, you have to wait a bit more for working solutions.
- Android: The Android version of the smartphone should be Android 6 or later.
Additionally, you must have an active internet connection to unlock your Windows PC remotely with an Android fingerprint scanner.
How to Set Up Remote Fingerprint Unlock
Now that everything has been settled, it’s time to delve into the steps to remotely unlock a Windows PC or laptop using your Android phone’s fingerprint scanner:
Step 1: Download the Remote Fingerprint Unlock app on your Android device using the link below.
If you encounter the message ‘This app isn’t available for your device because it was made for an older version of Android,’ you can still install the APK using the link provided below. Yes, the app is compatible with Android 14 at the time of writing this guide.
Step 2: Download and install the Fingerprint Unlock Module using the provided link.
Tip: If prompted to install additional components, click “Yes” to grant permission. These modules include necessary TCP/UDP rules, facilitating seamless communication between your smartphone and PC.
Step 3: After installation, restart your system. However, when the login screen appears, refrain from logging in. If the module has been installed properly, you will see “Fingerprint Unlock.” If this is visible, proceed to the next step.
Step 4: Open the Remote Fingerprint app and tap “Scan.” If you can’t find this option, tap the hamburger menu at the top left corner and select “Scan.”
Step 5: Tap the plus button located at the bottom right corner and choose “By Scanning.”
Step 6: This will display the available PCs. Select your device from the list. If needed, you can change the name, then tap “Save.”
Step 7: Next, tap the hamburger menu located at the top left corner and select “My Accounts.”
Step 8: Select the three dots next to the device and tap “Add Account.” Click “OK” at the next window.
Step 9: Enter the account name. Include the username, and if you cannot add credentials, input the folder’s name located inside C > Users. This may vary depending on the device and Windows version you are using.
Step 10: Then, use the same password as your Microsoft account and tap “Save.”
Step 11: Confirm the changes using the fingerprint saved on your Android smartphone.
Once you’ve added the necessary information, select “Unlock” from the hamburger menu and tap the fingerprint sensor on your Android smartphone. If you’re unable to do so, swipe up from the screen. You’ll be prompted to authenticate your fingerprint to unlock the PC. With this, you can remotely unlock your Windows PC using your Android phone’s fingerprint scanner.
Unlock with Convenience
Having an additional layer of security beyond the typical Windows Hello authentication is always beneficial. Moreover, the capability to remotely unlock your Windows PC using the fingerprint scanner on Android adds a touch of coolness, particularly in social settings.
