Easy Ways to Set Up a Fingerprint Scanner on Your Computer

PDF download Download Article
A handy guide to how to set up and use your fingerprint scanner
PDF download Download Article

A fingerprint reader is used to provide an added layer of security for your computer. Fingerprint readers have taken computer security to the next level by allowing users to use their fingerprints to log in to their computer, switch users, and autofill password. Both Windows and Mac allow you to register fingerprints within the system. This wikiHow article teaches you how to install a fingerprint scanner on a computer and register your fingerprints.

Install a Fingerprint Scanner

  • You can purchase a fingerprint scanner from an electronics store or online. Simply connect it to a USB port on your computer. Install the drivers if needed.
  • On Windows, open the Settings menu and click Accounts > Sign In Options > Fingerprint Recognition > Set up and follow the prompts to add a fingerprint.
  • On Mac, click the Apple icon > System Settings > TouchID & Password > Add fingerprint and follow the prompts to add a fingerprint.
Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Installing a Fingerprint Scanner

PDF download Download Article
  1. 1
    Check if your computer already has a fingerprint scanner. Many computers and laptops come with a fingerprint scanner already installed. The location differs from one laptop or computer model to the next.
    • The fingerprint scanner is usually near the keyboard. It may be located on the palm rest area below the keyboard, or integrated into the Power button or the touchpad. You can also check the sides of your computer to see if you can find a fingerprint scanner.
    • Some Mac computers have a fingerprint scanner built into the Magic Mouse.
  2. 2
    Purchase a fingerprint scanner. If your computer doesn't have a fingerprint scanner (or it's not working), you can purchase fingerprint scanners online or from an electronics or computer store.
    • Fingerprint scanners range in price. For example, this Digital Persona desktop fingerprint scanner goes for about $80 and sits on your desk next to your computer. You can also purchase a mini-USB fingerprint scanner for about $25, which is compact and barely extends beyond your USB port.
    Advertisement
  3. 3
    Connect the fingerprint scanner to a USB port. You can use any free USB port on your computer. Most fingerprint scanners will be ready to use automatically after you connect them (or within a minute or two).
  4. 4
    Download the drivers if necessary. Most modern USB devices are plug-and-play, meaning the drivers will download automatically when you connect them. However, it may take a minute for this to happen. If the drivers don't download automatically, you may need to download the drivers from the manufacturer's website.
    • If your fingerprint scanner comes with a CD or USB drive, you can use this to install the drivers for your device. Insert the CD or USB drive and follow the prompts to install the driver.
    • If you need to install the drivers for your computer's fingerprint scanner, you can do so from the manufacturer's website for your PC. [1]
    5. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Registering a Fingerprint in Windows

PDF download Download Article
  1. 1
    Open the Settings menu. You can register a fingerprint using Windows Hello on both Windows 10 and 11. To get started, open the Settings menu. Use the following steps to do so:
    • Click the Windows Start menu.
    • Click the Settings/Gear icon.
  2. 2
    Click Accounts . On Windows 11, it's in the menu bar to the left. On Windows 10, it's below the icon that resembles a person.
  3. 3
    Click Sign In Options . On Windows 11, it's below "Account Settings" next to an icon that resembles a key. You may need to scroll down. On Windows 10, it's below "Accounts" in the menu bar to the left.
  4. 4
    Click Fingerprint Recognition (Windows Hello) . It's next to an icon that resembles a fingerprint. On Windows 10, this option will say Windows Hello Fingerprint instead. You will see a "Set up" button appear below this option.
  5. 5
    Click Set Up followed by Get Started . When you see the button that says "Set up" appear, click it. You will see a pop-up window that will walk you through the steps of registering a fingerprint. Click Get Started at the bottom of the window.
  6. 6
    Enter your Windows PIN or password. You may be asked to verify your identity by entering your Windows PIN or password. Go ahead and do so when prompted.
  7. 7
    Touch or swipe the fingerprint scanner multiple times. You will need to touch the scanner multiple times and at different angles. Follow the prompts on-screen and continue to touch the fingerprint scanner until the fingerprint icon on-screen is completely filled in.
  8. 8
    Click Add another finger or Close . If you wish to add any additional fingers, click Add another finger and follow the prompts on-screen to add an additional finger. If you are done adding all the fingerprints you want to add, click Close . You can now use your fingerprint to log in to Windows as well as log in at various websites and applications. [2]
    • You add as many as 10 fingerprints to your Windows account.
    9. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Registering a Fingerprint on Mac

PDF download Download Article
  1. 1
    Open the System Settings menu. You can add a fingerprint using TouchID on Mac computers and laptops. You can set it up in the Settings menu. Use the following steps to open the System Settings menu.
    • Click the Apple icon in the menu bar at the top.
    • Click System Settings (or System Preferences on older versions of macOS).
  2. 2
    Scroll down and click TouchID & Password . It's in the menubar to the left next to an icon that resembles a fingerprint.
  3. 3
    Click Add fingerprint . It's the option that has a plus sign ( + ) icon. It's below the "TouchID" header.
    • You can add up to three fingerprints per user account or 5 fingerprints per Mac.
  4. 4
    Enter your password and click Unlock . You will need to enter the password you use to log in to your Mac in order to continue. Enter your password and click the button that says Unlock .
  5. 5
    Touch the fingerprint scanner repeatedly. You will need to touch the fingerprint scanner multiple times and at different angles, Continue to touch the fingerprint scanner and follow the prompts on-screen until your Mac has captured your fingerprint.
  6. 6
    Select what features you want to use TouchID for. You'll see a list of options at the bottom of the screen. Ensure the toggle switch is enabled for all the features you want to use TouchID for. The options are as follows:
    • Use TouchID to unlock your Mac: This option allows you to use your fingerprint to wake your Mac when it is in sleep mode.
    • Use TouchID for Apple Pay: This option will require you to use your fingerprint to complete any purchases with Apple Pay.
    • Use TouchID for purchases in iTunes Store, App Store, or Apple Books: This requires you to use your fingerprint to complete any purchases in the App Store, iTunes Store, or to purchase Apple Books.
    • Use TouchID for autofilling passwords: This option will require you to use your fingerprint to automatically fill in any login passwords stored in your keychain.
    • Use TouchID for fast user switching: If there are multiple users on your Mac, this option allows you to quickly switch users using your password.
    7. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Can this application be used in a biometric fingerprint clock-in time?
    Community Answer
    Yes, it will show the time, date and place.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 6 Helpful 10
  • Question
    How much is the installation software disc with the fingerprint reader in Kenya shillings?
    Hailey Scott
    Community Answer
    The price of a fingerprint reader installation software disc in Kenya can vary depending on the brand and model. Generally, you can expect to pay from KSh 2,000 to KSh 5,000 for the software disc itself. However, prices may differ based on the specific features and compatibility of the fingerprint reader. It's always a good idea to check with local suppliers or online stores for the most accurate pricing.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
  • Question
    Can l apply this process to install any other fingerprint scanner or devices?
    Hailey Scott
    Community Answer
    Yes, the installation process for fingerprint scanners generally follows the same steps regardless of the specific device. Ensure compatibility with your operating system, check the necessary ports, and download the required drivers or software from the manufacturer’s website. Whether it's a USB-connected fingerprint scanner or another biometric device, these foundational steps remain consistent. Just remember to consult the specific manual for any unique requirements. By following these steps, you can successfully install various fingerprint scanners and similar devices.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
See more answers
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Connect Two Monitors
      How to
      Make a Pen Stylus
      6 Quick Ways to Scan Documents to PDF on Mobile or Desktop
      How to
      Make a Stylus
      How to
      Make a Stylus for iPad
      How to
      Scan Multiple Pages Into One PDF File
      How to
      Email a Scanned Document as a PDF
      How to
      Scan Photos
      How to
      Connect a Microphone to a Mac or Windows Computer
      How to
      Scan a Book to PDF on a Computer, iPhone, or Android
      How to
      Digitally Scan 35mm Slides
      How to
      Get an SSD to Show Up
      How to
      Remove a Device from the HP Smart App
      How to
      Transfer a Hand Drawing to a Computer
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.dell.com/support/kbdoc/en-us/000126053/how-to-download-and-install-the-fingerprint-reader-driver-for-your-computer-and-then-enroll-or-remove-your-fingerprint-using-windows-hello
      2. ↑ https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/configure-windows-hello-dae28983-8242-bb2a-d3d1-87c9d265a5f0

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 81,246 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Jason Churlarth

        May 11, 2017

        "It's simple for beginners."
      Share your story
      If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission .

      Is this article up to date?

      Advertisement