Log On to Windows with a Certificate

You can use a smart card certificate to securely log on to Windows.

Prerequisites:

  • Your smart card is configured with a certificate for Windows PKI logon.

  • Your workstation is configured for PKI logon – the workstation must be attached to a domain, a root certificate must be available and a CRL server accessible.

  • Microsoft Smart Card Mini Driver Support (sub-component of the Digital Certificate Services component) was installed during setup.

  1. Start your workstation.

  1. Insert your smart card (chip-side up and chip first) into the smart card reader.

    A Log On window relevant to your operating system is displayed.

  1. If multiple smart card certificates that compatible with Microsoft Windows logon are displayed, select the one you want to use.

  2. Enter your PIN in the PIN field and click OK.

    After a few moments, you are logged on and your desktop is displayed.