Password Manager Bitwarden: Update Restores Biometric Login

The password manager Bitwarden has been released in version 2025.11. The changelog only lists "Bug fixes" without further explanation, but the version actually reactivates the ability to log into Bitwarden on Windows using biometrics via Windows Hello.

The feature to unlock the password manager after Windows startup using Windows Hello – i.e., PIN, fingerprint, or facial scan – had been removed by Bitwarden in August without replacement. In a longer thread in the Bitwarden community, the dissatisfaction about this became apparent. For many, the required entry of the master password after a computer restart is an unwanted effort. Bitwarden did not communicate it, but the feature was deactivated due to security concerns. According to a GitHub issue, it is clear that the Windows Hello window did not reliably appear in the foreground.

Reactivation of Biometric Login

Bitwarden 2025.11 from Thursday this week reactivates the feature. Affected users must, however, take action.

However, in an attempt, a simple restart after updating Bitwarden was not enough. First, under "File" – "Settings" in Bitwarden Desktop, the option "Unlock with Windows Hello" must be deactivated, the settings dialog confirmed with "Close", and then Bitwarden exited. Only then, after restarting (and entering the master password) and activating "Unlock with Windows Hello", will the option "Prompt for master password or PIN on app restart" appear. The checkbox must be removed here. Clicking the "Close" button applies the changed configuration.

Bitwarden provides a short guide, which generally explains the activation of biometric unlocking. With the update to the new version, Bitwarden can be used again with significantly higher convenience.

(dmk)