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Sign In Automatically With netplwiz Without a Blank Password

A media PC or a lab machine should boot to the desktop. The account still needs a password, and there is a correct way to skip the prompt.

by@guidox updated:10/31/26 time:15 min level:Intermediate tested on:Windows 11 24H2 works on:Windows 10, Windows 11 tools:Admin rights
TL;DR

Set the account password, enable **Users must enter a user name and password**, then store the credentials for automatic sign-in. Do not remove the password to get rid of the prompt.

Before you start

Requirements

  • Admin rights
  • A password on the account
  • Ten minutes
Step by step

Instructions

01

Give the account a password first

An account without a password cannot be used for stored credentials in a useful way, and Windows restricts some features for it. Set one, even a short one.

Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options
02

Open the classic user dialog

The old control panel dialog has the checkbox that Windows Settings hides. Run it from the Run box; it needs elevation.

netplwiz
03

Keep the checkbox ticked

Unticking it is the popular shortcut and it does not always survive a feature update. Leave it ticked and use the credential prompt instead.

tipIf the checkbox is missing entirely, the account uses Windows Hello only. Add a password method before continuing.
04

Store the credentials

Select the account, open Properties, then the advanced tab, and tick the box for automatic sign-in. Enter the password twice; Windows stores it in the credential store.

⚠ warningThe stored password is readable by an administrator on the machine. Do not do this on a laptop that leaves the house.
05

Handle the lock screen and updates

Automatic sign-in skips the password prompt at boot, not the lock screen after idle. Disable the screen saver lock separately if the machine is a kiosk.

06

Test a real reboot

Sign out rather than restarting, then restart. Some updates force a credential prompt once after an upgrade, and knowing that saves a support call.

Troubleshooting

Common issues

It still asks for a password

The checkbox was unticked or the stored password is stale. Re-enter it after a password change.

The checkbox does not exist

Windows Hello is the only sign-in method, or a policy removed it. Add a password first.

It works once then stops

A feature update reset the setting. Repeat the credential step.

The machine boots to a black screen

A driver, not the sign-in setting. Check with a normal sign-in.

FAQ

Frequently asked

Is this secure?

It trades a boot-time password for convenience. The disk encryption and physical access are what protect the machine.

Does it work with a Microsoft account?

Yes, but a PIN change on another device invalidates the stored password.

How to undo this

Open **netplwiz** again and clear the automatic sign-in checkbox on the advanced tab. The password prompt returns on the next boot.

Changelog · 1 entry
  1. 2026-10-31
    First version
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