Set screen lock on an Android device

You can set up a screen lock to help secure your Android phone or tablet. Each time that 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.

Important:

• Some of these steps work only on Android 10 and up. Learn how to check your Android version.
• Some of these steps require you to touch the screen.

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 phone's Settings app.
2. Tap Security.
   • If you don’t find 'Security', go to your phone manufacturer’s support site for help.
3. To choose a type 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 that you’d like to use. Follow the on-screen instructions.

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

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