Key Takeaways
1. Microsoft has identified a bug in Windows 11 that causes the password sign-in icon to disappear from the lock screen after recent updates, confusing users about login options.
2. The issue affects Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2 following the August 2025 KB5064081 preview update, especially for users with multiple sign-in methods enabled.
3. Although the password icon is missing, the password login function remains accessible; users can click on the blank space to reveal the password field.
4. Microsoft has not provided a permanent fix for the issue yet, but they are working on it, with no timeline for resolution currently available.
5. This missing icon is part of a series of problems related to the KB5064081 update, including issues with DRM video playback and app installation failures for non-admin accounts.
Microsoft has acknowledged a peculiar bug in Windows 11 that can cause the password sign-in icon to disappear from the lock screen following recent updates, leaving some users confused about how to log in—even though the actual button remains functional.
Sign-In Options Confusion
Typically, Windows 11 displays the password icon only when multiple sign-in methods are set up—like a mix of PINs, passwords, security keys, or fingerprints. If someone uses just a password, the system defaults to showing only the password field, which means everything seems normal. The bug, however, impacts those who have various authentication methods enabled.
Update Impact Details
The issue is present in Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2 after the installation of the August 2025 KB5064081 preview update or any subsequent updates. In these situations, the password icon is completely absent from the Sign-in options list, leading users to believe that password login is no longer an option.
Workaround and Future Fixes
In truth, the function is still there; it’s just not displayed correctly, appearing as an empty space instead. According to Microsoft’s updated support documentation, hovering the mouse over this blank area reveals a clickable zone. Clicking on it opens the password field as usual, allowing users to input their credentials and log in without issues.
Currently, Microsoft hasn’t provided a permanent solution apart from using this hidden control, stating that a proper fix is under development, but a timeline for its release has not been shared.
The missing icon is just the latest problem associated with the KB5064081 update. In late September, Microsoft resolved a bug that caused freezing, playback issues, or black screens when playing DRM-protected videos in Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital TV apps. They also had to fix failed app installations for non-admin accounts due to unexpected User Account Control prompts, as well as significant lag and stuttering issues in NDI-based streaming software on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
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