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: Some of these steps may vary based on your device.
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.
- Open your Settings app.
- Tap Security & privacy 👁 and then
Device unlock. - 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.
- Tap the screen lock option you’d like to use. Follow the on-screen instructions.
- To change your screen lock's settings, next to "Screen lock," tap Settings 👁 Image
. 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
- If your phone has a fingerprint sensor, you can unlock your phone with your fingerprint. Learn how to unlock with your fingerprint.
- On Pixel 4 and Pixel 7 or later, including Pixel Fold, you can use Face Unlock to unlock your phone. Learn more about Face Unlock.
- Keep your device unlocked for longer in certain conditions, like when your device is at home. Learn how to turn on Smart Lock.
- If Auto-confirm unlock is on, you won’t need to tap the enter key to unlock your phone. Learn more about Auto-confirm unlock.
Tip: You can temporarily turn off fingerprint unlocking and Smart Lock by turning on lockdown. Learn how to use lockdown.