Steps on Screen

What Is a PIN?

A PIN is a short secret number that you type to prove it is you, such as when you sign in to a computer or unlock a phone. PIN stands for personal identification number. Keep it to yourself, as you would a password.

What it looks like

A drawing of a sign-in screen with a round picture of a person, a name below it, and a box labeled PIN that shows four dots, one for each digit typed.

A PIN box often says PIN. It shows a dot for each digit you type instead of the digit itself, so people nearby cannot read it. The dots are normal.

On Windows and on a Mac

Windows 11 can ask for a PIN when you sign in. That PIN works only on that one computer. A Mac asks for your password when you sign in, not a PIN. An Android phone can use a PIN to unlock its screen.

Lessons that use this word

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