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Set screen lock on your Pixel phone

You can set up a screen lock to help secure your Android phone or tablet. Each time you turn on your device or wake up the screen, you’ll be asked to unlock your device, usually with a PIN, pattern, or password. On some devices, you can unlock with your fingerprint or face.

Important:

Set or change a screen lock

Important: To ensure your automatic and manual backups are encrypted with your screen lock, use a PIN, pattern, or a password. Learn how to back up or restore data on your phone.

  1. Open your Settings app.
  2. Tap Security & privacy and then Device unlock.
  3. To pick a kind of screen lock, tap Screen lock.
    • If you’ve already set a lock, you’ll need to enter your PIN, pattern, or password before you can pick a different lock.
  4. Tap the screen lock option you’d like to use. Follow the on-screen instructions.
  5. To change your screen lock's settings, next to "Screen lock," tap Settings . Settings include automatic lock timing, Power button locking, and a lock screen message.

Screen lock options

No lock

  • None: Your phone stays unlocked. This gives no protection, but you can get to your Home screen quickly.
  • Swipe: Swipe your finger across your screen. This gives no protection, but you can get to your Home screen quickly.

Standard locks

  • PIN: Enter 4 or more numbers, but a 6 digit PIN is recommended for added security. Longer PINs tend to be more secure.
  • Pattern: Draw a simple pattern with your finger.
  • Password: Enter 4 or more letters or numbers. A strong password is the most secure screen lock option.

More locks

Tip: You can temporarily turn off fingerprint unlocking and Smart Lock by turning on lockdown. Learn how to use lockdown.

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