Create/modify the following :
reg query "HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon" /v AutoAdminLogon reg query "HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon" /v DefaultUserName
Configuring AutoLogon via the Windows 11 Registry is a powerful tool for system administrators and power users seeking to optimize unattended workflows. It eliminates the barrier of the login screen, allowing devices to function seamlessly as dedicated appliances. However, this convenience comes at the cost of security. The storage of credentials in plaintext renders this method unsuitable for laptops, shared workstations, or machines containing sensitive data. Ultimately, the decision to implement registry-based AutoLogon should be dictated by a simple rule: use it only where physical security is guaranteed and the risk of credential exposure is an acceptable trade-off for operational efficiency. windows 11 autologon registry
Set-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon" -Name "AutoAdminLogon" -Value "1" -Type String Set-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon" -Name "DefaultUserName" -Value "YourUsername" -Type String Set-ItemProperty -Path "HKLM:\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon" -Name "DefaultPassword" -Value "YourPlaintextPassword" -Type String
If you need help setting up or removing autologon entirely, let me know. The storage of credentials in plaintext renders this
Even with AutoLogon enabled, Windows 11 might still show the lock screen if:
Experts generally advise against manual registry edits. Instead, use the official Microsoft Sysinternals Autologon utility, which is safer because it encrypts credentials as an LSA secret rather than storing them in plain text. Common Issues with Windows 11 Autologon Even with AutoLogon enabled, Windows 11 might still
In the Registry Editor, go to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon Create or modify these (REG_SZ): AutoAdminLogon : Set to 1 .
Useful for temporary automation without leaving the system auto-logging forever.
