How to Require a Password on Wakeup in Windows 11

Introduction

You probably have a lot of sensitive information on your Windows computer. As a result, it’s important to make sure that someone can’t just hop on that device and start digging through your data without your permission. One easy thing you can do is require the password associated with your account to be re-entered whenever either you, or someone else, wake your Windows 11 computer up from sleep mode.

Some of the images associated with the steps are included inline below. All images associated with these steps can be seen in the embedded YouTube video. Also, please note that you’re not able to leave a comment directly on this article. If you have a question or feedback, please leave it on the YouTube video.

Steps to Require a Password on Wakeup in Windows 11

1. Navigate to your Windows 11 home screen, and then press the “Windows” and “I” keys at the same time. The Windows Settings screen will be displayed.
2. Click “Accounts” in the menu on the left side of the screen.

3. Click “Sign-in Options.”

4. Scroll down to the Additional Settings section, find the option that says “If you’ve been away, when should Windows require you to sign in again?” and then click to open the drop-down menu in that section.

5. If you want to require a password every time someone wakes this computer up, choose “Every Time.” If you want to be a little more relaxed in your rules, you can choose to wait after the computer has been asleep for either one, three, five or 10 minutes before forcing someone to enter a password. In this example, I’ll choose “Every Time.” Going forward a password will be required when you wake up your Windows 11 computer.

Reasons to Require a Password on Wakeup in Windows 11

1. Security

Requiring a password on wake-up offers an extra layer of security for your Windows 11 computer. By entering a password, you confirm your identity and prevent unauthorized access to your device. In today’s world of increasing cyber threats, this simple step can go a long way in protecting your sensitive information. You can sleep easy knowing that your personal and financial data are secure.

2. Privacy

With a password prompt on wake-up, you can keep your personal and sensitive information confidential. Whether you’re using your computer at home or in a public place, you can be confident that your privacy is protected. A password requirement adds an extra layer of protection to your sensitive files, photos, and emails. Protect yourself from prying eyes and keep your data safe.

3. Compliance

For organizations with strict regulations, requiring a password on wake-up can help meet compliance requirements. With sensitive information at stake, such as client data or financial records, complying with regulations is critical. This simple step helps ensure that sensitive information is protected, and you can be confident that you are in compliance with industry regulations.

4. Preventing Unwanted Changes

Requiring a password on wake-up can prevent others from making changes to your device. This is especially important if you share your computer with family or coworkers. Protect your work and prevent accidental changes by requiring a password every time your computer wakes up.

5. Protecting Unsaved Work

Unsaved work can be frustrating and time-consuming to recover. Requiring a password on wake-up protects your unsaved work and ensures it is not lost or accidentally deleted by someone else. You can take a break or step away from your computer without worrying about losing your progress. Keep your work safe and secure with a password requirement on wake-up.