Some Chromebooks like the HP x360 14C have a built-in fingerprint reader. You can use your fingerprint to unlock your Chromebook from standby. For security reasons, you must use your full password or your pin code to sign in after a complete restart or when powering on the Chromebook when it is turned off.
While I wish you could use the fingerprint reader in all cases, I resume from standby most of the time so the fingerprint reader can be used in most cases.
The first time you log into your Chromebook you will be prompted to set up your fingerprint. However, you can also set up your fingerprint(s) later by following the steps below.
Set Up fingerprint reader on Chromebook
- Click the Launcher button in the bottom left corner of the screen.
- Type Settings and click on it.
- In the Settings window, click on People on the left side of the screen
- Click on Security and Sign-in
- Enter your password when prompted
- Click on Setup next to Edit Fingerprints
- Click Add Fingerprint
- Press the finger you want to set up onto the fingerprint reader
- Lift and press your finger again several times.
- Once you have scanned your finger enough times, you will see a green checkmark under the fingerprint image.
- At this point, you can click Add another to add more fingerprints or click Done if you are finished adding.
Unlock Chromebook using the fingerprint reader
Now that you have your fingerprint(s) set up, you are ready to start using the fingerprint reader. For security, it is best practice to have your Chromebook prompt for your password whenever you have been away from it.
When you are on the lock screen you’ll see Unlock with Fingerprint listed under the password field. You do not need to click on it. All you have to do is put your finger on the fingerprint reader and your Chromebook will unlock. Whoa!
Have Chromebook prompt for your password when locked or in standby
For security, it is a best practice to have your Chromebook prompt for your password:
- When it comes out of standby
- When you open the lid
- When you lock your Chromebook
Here’s how to program your Chromebook to prompt for a password and/or your fingerprint. Actually, this is an account setting that will force this option on any Chromebook you log into with the same account.
- Open Settings
- Click on People
- Click on Security and Sign-in
- Enter your password when prompted
- Turn on Show lock screen when waking from sleep
You should always be prompted for your password from now on.
Now that we have your fingerprint reader all set up, take a look at this post for configuring your touchpad.
