DeviceHowTo
Chromebook⏱ 3 min

How to Enable Screen Lock / Passcode on Chromebook

Set up a PIN, password, or biometric lock to protect your device.

Last verified: February 21, 2026

Chromebook screen lock is configured in Settings > Security & Privacy > Lock Screen, where you set a PIN that's required when the device wakes from sleep. Chromebook also supports Smart Lock, which keeps the device unlocked when the paired Android phone is nearby — configured through Settings > Connected Devices > Android phone > Smart Lock. For shared family or school devices, ChromeOS user management means each Google account has its own separate session with its own lock, keeping users' data isolated without requiring separate device accounts at the OS level.

Quick Steps

Follow in order for the fastest result.

  1. 1Click the system clock > Settings > Security & Privacy > Screen Lock. Set a PIN or password.
  2. 2Set screen lock to activate after 30 seconds to 1 minute of inactivity for security without interruption.
  3. 3Biometric unlock (fingerprint, face) is the recommended default — PIN or password always remains as the backup.

Still Not Working?

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most secure screen lock type for Chromebook?
A strong alphanumeric password is the most secure option, but modern biometrics (Face ID on iPhone, fingerprint on Android) provide strong security with far better usability. A 6-digit PIN is a reasonable minimum. Avoid 4-digit PINs, patterns, and swipe-only locks for any device with sensitive data.
How do I set up fingerprint unlock on Chromebook?
Chromebook does not currently support fingerprint authentication as a screen lock method.
How long should my Chromebook wait before locking?
30 seconds to 1 minute is the recommended balance between security and convenience for most users. Very short intervals (15 seconds) are appropriate for high-security environments. Setting it to Never is only appropriate for a desktop in a physically secure, private location.
What happens if I forget my Chromebook screen lock PIN or password?
On Chromebook, sign in with your Google account on the lock screen even if you forget the device PIN.

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