The fingerprint scanner on Xiaomi laptops is not only a convenient way to unlock, but also an additional layer of security. However, many users face difficulties in the first setup: the system does not recognize a finger, the sensor does not respond, or the feature is not on the menu at all. In this article, we will analyze the step-by-step instructions for RedmiBook, Mi Notebook Pro and other models, and also explain how to solve typical problems.
It's important to understand that the process can vary depending on Windows version (10 or 11) and the laptop model. For example, on Xiaomi Mi Notebook Air 13.3, the sensor is built into the power button, and on RedmiBook 15 Pro, it's built into the touchpad. We've taken these nuances into account so that the instruction fits most devices. If your model doesn't support the hardware function, you'll know about it in the first step.
Before you start, make sure that the laptop has the latest biometric device drivers installed, which can be downloaded from Xiaomi's official website or through Device Manager. Now, let's get to the details.
1. Compatibility Check: Does your Xiaomi laptop support a fingerprint scanner?
Not all Xiaomi models have a fingerprint sensor, here's how to check for it:
- 🔍 Look at the case: on most laptops, the sensor is located in the upper right corner of the touchpad (for example, RedmiBook). 14/15/16) Or in the on button (like on the Mi Notebook Air), if you don't see a distinctive circle or stripe, there's no function.
- 💻 Go to Windows Settings → Accounts → If Windows Hello is not a fingerprint, your model does not support scanning.
- 📋 For example, Xiaomi Mi Notebook Pro X 15 (2022) has a sensor, and the budget RedmiBook 13 of the first generation does not.
If you have a sensor, but Windows can't see it, the problem may be in the drivers, and we'll talk about that in the bug section, and for now, let's assume that it's okay, let's move on to the setup.
2. Preparing the laptop before setting up the print
To avoid failure, follow a few preliminary steps:
- Update Windows to the latest version via Settings → Windows Update. Biometric features often require fresh security patches.
- Install the drivers for the scanner. Download them from the Xiaomi website (Support → Drivers section) or through Device Manager (find a device marked Biometric or Fingerprint).
- Create. PIN-Microsoft account code. Windows won't let you add a fingerprint without it. → Accounts → Entry parameters → PIN-code.
Critical detail: if you use a local account (without Microsoft binding), the fingerprint function will not be available, and you can only circumvent this limitation by creating a Microsoft account or switching to Windows 11 Pro with domain authorization.
☑️ Preparation for the imprint setting
3. Step-by-step instructions: how to add a fingerprint
Now, to the point, follow the instructions carefully, because the process is sensitive to speed and force.
- Open Windows settings (win + I keys).
- Go to the Accounts. → Entry parameters.
- Find the Windows Hello: Fingerprint section and click Settings.
- Enter. PIN-proof-code.
- Follow the hints on the screen: put your finger on the scanner and raise/lower it until the scale is 100% full. Don't press hard, the sensor is triggered by a light touch.
- When completed, name the print (e.g., "Indicative Right") and save it.
Tip: Add a few fingers (like the index finger and the big one on both hands) in case one of them gets busy or damaged. Windows allows you to save up to 10 fingerprints.
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If the scanner doesn't respond to the first finger, try another - some sensors don't read wet or rough skin well.
4. Typical errors and their solutions
Even if you set it up properly, you can have problems.
| Mistake. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Scanner not found in parameters | No drivers or sensor disabled in BIOS | Update drivers through Device Manager or check your BIOS settings (Security → Fingerprint) |
| The fingerprint is not recognized after adding | Poor scan quality or dirty sensor | Remove the print and add it again. |
| The error "Something went wrong" when setting up | Antivirus conflict or corrupted system files | Temporarily disable the antivirus or execute the command sfc /scannow in the command line on behalf of the administrator. |
| The sensor only works after restarting. | Energy-saving settings shut down the scanner | Turn off sleep mode for USB-Device Manager → Controllers USB → Properties → Power management |
If none of these methods worked, try resetting the BIOS to factory settings or contact Xiaomi Support. In rare cases, the problem may be hardware (the sensor plume is damaged).
What if the scanner stopped working after the Windows update?
5 How to remove or change the stored prints
If you want to remove an old print or add a new one, do the following:
- Open Settings → Accounts → Sign-in options.
- Find the Windows Hello: Fingerprint section and click Control.
- Enter. PIN-proof-code.
- Click on the cross next to the unnecessary print or select Add another for the new scan.
Please note that after all fingerprints are deleted, the system may require re-entering. PIN-Also, if you reset Windows to factory settings, all biometrics will be deleted automatically.
6. Additional settings: how to make the scanner more convenient
Windows allows you to fine-tune the behavior of the scanner. Here are some useful options:
- 🔐 Quick unlock: Enable Windows Hello to exit sleep mode in the login settings so that the laptop unlocks immediately after touching the sensor.
- 🛡️ Two-factor authentication: combine print with PIN-code for enhanced security (configure in the settings) → Accounts → Entry parameters → Additional parameters).
- 🔄 Automatic Driver Update: Enable this feature in Settings → Update and security → Additional settings to ensure that the scanner is always stable.
Some Xiaomi models (such as the Mi Notebook Pro X) have Mi Fingerprint proprietary software that extends the sensor’s capabilities.
- 📁 Password-protecting folders + print.
- 🔒 Block individual applications (for example, browser or messengers).
- 🖱️ Configure gestures on the touchpad with a binding to the scanner.
Download the utility from the official website of Xiaomi in the Support → Software section for your model.
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Xiaomi's proprietary software often offers more features than standard Windows settings. Install it if you want to make the most of your fingerprint scanner.
7.Security: How reliable is the fingerprint scanner on Xiaomi
Biometric authentication is convenient, but not perfect. Here's what you need to know about security:
- 🔐 Security level: fingerprint is more secure than password, but more vulnerable PIN-It is difficult to crack it, but theoretically possible (for example, using a high-quality cast).
- 📱 Data storage: Windows encrypts fingerprints and stores them locally (does not send them to the cloud), but if data is leaked from a device, they can be compromised.
- 🚨 Risks: If someone gets physical access to the laptop, they may add their fingerprint (unless installed) PIN-code).
Recommendations for improving safety:
- 🔒 Use the print together with PIN-code, not in its place.
- 🔄 Regularly update Windows and scanner drivers.
- 🚫 Do not add fingerprints of other people (even relatives).
⚠️ Note: If you are selling or transferring a laptop to another person, be sure to delete all biometric data through Settings. → Accounts → Login settings. Unlike passwords, fingerprints can't be changed -- they're tied to your identity.