How to fix “Something went wrong and your PIN isn’t available” (Code: 0xd0000225) on Windows 10/11

What is error 0xd0000225

The error message Something went wrong and your PIN isn’t available with the code 0xd0000225 usually appears on the login screen, preventing users from signing in with their PIN. It may suggest creating a new PIN, but often, users find themselves unable to resolve the issue through the provided options. Encountering the error “Something went wrong and your PIN isn’t available” accompanied by the code 0xd0000225 can be a significant obstacle for Windows 10 and Windows 11 users trying to log into their devices. This error typically prevents users from accessing their accounts using their PIN, a convenient and secure method of signing in. This guide provides insights into what causes this error and outlines step-by-step solutions to resolve it, ensuring you regain access to your Windows account.

Why Does This Error Appear?

The 0xd0000225 error can arise due to several reasons:

1. Corrupted NGC Folder: The NGC folder, where Windows stores PIN-related information, may become corrupted.
2. System File Corruption: Essential system files becoming corrupted or damaged can lead to this error.
3. Windows Update Issues: Recent Windows updates might conflict with the system’s login mechanisms.
4. Incorrect Permissions: Incorrect permissions for the NGC folder can prevent Windows from accessing PIN information.

Fixing the Error Code 0xd0000225 manually

Follow these solutions to resolve the PIN issue and regain access to your Windows 10 or Windows 11 device.

1. Use Alternative Login Options

Before attempting to fix the error, try logging in with an alternative method, such as your Microsoft account password or a fingerprint, if set up. This can provide temporary access to address the issue.

2. Delete and Recreate the PIN

To reset the PIN, you first need to log in using an alternative method. Once logged in:

1. Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
2. Select Windows Hello PIN and then click on I forgot my PIN.
3. Follow the prompts to reset your PIN.

If you cannot see the “I forgot my PIN” option, proceed to delete the NGC folder manually and then recreate the PIN.

Deleting the NGC Folder:

1. Open File Explorer and navigate to C:\Windows\ServiceProfiles\LocalService\AppData\Local\Microsoft.
2. Right-click the NGC folder and select Properties.
3. Go to the Security tab and click Advanced.
4. Click Change next to the owner and set the owner to your account.
5. Apply the changes, ensuring you have full control permissions.
6. Delete the NGC folder.

Since this error won’t allow you to access visual interface, you can do it via booting in Command Prompt in Advanced Startup Mode:

1. Hold Shift and press restart to boot in Advanced Startup Mode.
2. Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Command Prompt.

Once you have the Command Prompt, you can proceed to enter the commands related to the NGC folder. These commands are intended to reset the permissions of the NGC folder and rename it, which can help resolve issues preventing PIN login.

icacls C:\Windows\ServiceProfiles\LocalService\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Ngc /T /Q /C /RESET

This command resets the folder permissions of the NGC directory, which is crucial for PIN-based logins.

Ren C:\Windows\ServiceProfiles\LocalService\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Ngc Ngc.old

Renaming the NGC folder forces Windows to create a new NGC folder upon the next PIN setup, which can clear any corrupted data causing the login issue.

3. Restart your PC and try to login.

Recreate Your PIN:

1. Go back to Sign-in options in the Accounts settings.
2. Click on Add under the PIN section and follow the instructions to create a new PIN.

3. Run the SFC and DISM Tools

Corrupted system files can cause this error. Running the System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tools can help repair them:

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. After the SFC scan completes, type the following DISM command and press Enter:

   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

4. Restart your PC after the processes complete.

4. Update Windows

Ensure your system is up to date, as updates can fix known bugs and issues:

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
3. Restart your computer.

Windows 11 -> Settings

Settings ->Windows Update

Windows Update -> Check for Updates

5. Check for Malware

Malware infections can sometimes cause this error. Run a full system scan with Windows Security or your preferred antivirus to remove any threats. Malicious or unwanted programs are known to cause various damage or configuration clutter inside the system. This is why it is worth running a thorough scan to make sure it is not the actual case. You can use the default Windows Defender or try to install a more advanced antivirus developed by Malwarebytes – a trusted and talented group of experts constantly updating their software to fight off both local and global threats. You can download it now using the link below and get a 14-day trial of the ultimate antimalware experience completely for free. It is available for Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, and 7.

Malwarebytes main window

Malwarebytes settings

Malwarebytes scan results

Conclusion

The “Something went wrong and your PIN isn’t available” error (code: 0xd0000225) can disrupt your access to Windows, but it’s usually resolvable with the steps provided above. These solutions aim to address the most common causes of the error, from corrupted PIN information to system file issues. If the problem persists, consider contacting Microsoft Support or a professional technician for further assistance.