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Disable Local Account Security Questions on Windows

Two-factor authentication is an alternative to this security method

6 min. read

Updated onFebruary 15, 2024

updated onFebruary 15, 2024

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Key notes

Local account security questions are a form of authentication commonly used to enhance the security of user accounts on various platforms, applications, or systems. Nevertheless, some of our readers disable local account security questions because they preferother security methods.

This is so because of the lapses in this security method. Hence, should you prefer to disable the questions too, this article will guide you through simplified steps easily.

Why disable local account security questions? One of the strong advantages of the security questions is how easy they are to set. Further, they are low-cost and require next-to-nothing to store and use them.

Despite these, the cons seem to outweigh its pros as outlined below:

With the factors highlighted above, using security questions poses a high level of security risks such asunauthorized access to user accounts, information & privacy leaks, account lockouts (in the case where the answer is forgotten), and so forth.

Hence, alternative authentication methods liketwo-factor authentication (2FA)are preferred by several of our readers because it adds a second layer of security to verify user identity.

How do I disable local account security questions on Windows 11?

How do I disable local account security questions on Windows 11?

1. Using Group Policy Editor

This will immediately disable the security questions for the account you are currently logged into. However, make sure to create a backup before making any changes inGroup Policy Editor.

2. Using Registry Editor

Once you’re done, closethe Registry Editorand restart your PC. This will disable the local account security questions feature on your sign-in option page.

3. Using a Reg file

Usinga reg filewill create a new registry value in the System key and instantly disable local account security questions in Windows 11.

How do I disable local account security questions on Windows 10?

How do I disable local account security questions on Windows 10?

1. Using Local Group Policy Editor

Following the steps above will help to disable the security questions for the account.

2. Using the Registry Editor

Following the above steps, the security questions for your account will be disabled instantly.

How do I re-enable security questions?

1. Using the Group Policy Editor

The same process applies to both Windows 10 and 11 Operating Systems.

2. Using the Registry Editor

This will now re-enable the local account security questions in your Windows 10 & 11 PC.

What are the alternatives to security questions?

In the case where you do not want to use security questions any longer due to their security risks, there are a few alternatives to consider which include:

And that’s it on how to disable local account security questions in Windows 10 and 11. If yourWindows Security is not opening, you can explore our detailed guide to fix the issue.

Disabling security questions will help to prevent security breaches and protect user’s privacy. However, make sure you backup any important files and data before using any of the methods provided for disabling security questions.

If you have any questions or suggestions, do not hesitate to use the comments section below.

Loredana Harsana

Windows Software Expert

Loredana is a passionate writer with a keen interest in PC software and technology. She started off writing about mobile phones back when Samsung Galaxy S II was on top of the world and she fell in love with tech of all sorts.

Whenever she’s not at her work desk, you’ll find her enjoying refreshing tea flavors, spilling stories on paper, and listening to the radio.

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Loredana Harsana

Windows Software Expert

Loredana is a tech enthusiast who tackles mobility, privacy, and networking in easy-to follow guides for everyone.