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How to Set Up Automatic Login on Windows

Tap each step to see how to set up automatic login on Windows.

  1. Open Run with Windows + R and type "netplwiz"

    Open the Run dialog with the shortcut, then type "netplwiz" and press OK.

  2. Uncheck "Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer"

    Select the account you want to sign in automatically, then clear that checkbox.

  3. Click "Apply" and enter the password

    Clicking Apply prompts you to type that account's current password twice to confirm.

  4. Restart to confirm automatic login

    After restarting, check that the computer goes straight to the desktop without showing a login screen.

  5. Why it helps

    On a personal computer that only you use, you can skip typing a password every time and start working the moment you turn it on.

Best kept to a computer only you use

Automatic login is convenient specifically because it removes a barrier that exists to protect your account, which means anyone who can physically turn on that computer can get straight into your account and files. It's best reserved for a personal device in a space you already control, not a shared family computer or one anyone else has physical access to.

It doesn't remove password protection everywhere

This setting only skips the sign-in screen for that one local account; it doesn't affect passwords required elsewhere, such as an online account you sign into separately inside a browser or app. If the device is ever lost or stolen, anything still protected by its own separate password remains safe even though Windows itself will boot straight to the desktop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I set this up on a computer other people also use?

It isn't recommended. Once enabled, anyone who turns the computer on can get straight into your account without a password, which weakens security.

How do I turn automatic login back off?

Run "netplwiz" the same way, re-check the checkbox, and apply the change -- the login screen will ask for a password again like before.