Something Went Wrong: Error 0x80090016 on Windows 10/11

The Error Code 0x80090016 occurs when Windows fails to set up a security PIN due to a corrupted Ngc folder in the system volume. This PIN is crucial for Windows 10/11 users to secure their valuable data and is more convenient than a password.

What Is the Error Code 0x80090016 on Windows 10/11?

Unlike a password which can unlock both the Microsoft account and the device, a PIN is quite safer. In essence, an intruder can only access the device assigned to the particular PIN. They are not able to open your Microsoft account even if they get hold of the PIN code. You might wonder what to do about the Error 0x80090016 on Windows 10/11 when setting up your PIN. Well, it is possible to circumvent the problem, using a couple of solutions.

Unlike other error codes caused by many factors, this particular issue is limited to a couple of elements which include:

• Corrupt Ngc Folder: This is the common cause of the error. It happens when the content of the Ngc folder gets The folder is used to store files liable to your computer’s security.
• Third-party Software: Upon setting up the PIN, the request is likely intercepted by the background processes linked to third-party applications. This can lead to the system failing to configure the PIN.

How to Fix the Error Code 0x80090016 on Windows 10/11

Note that the solutions we have provided below require administrative privileges. So, make sure the account you’re using has admin privileges before proceeding. The initial fix requires the user to access a directory that needs administrative rights. You must pay attention when applying these solutions to avoid further damage to your system.

Fix #1: Erase Ngc Folder Contents

This is the likely and common cause to the Error 0x80090016 accompanied by ‘Something went wrong’ message. So, deleting the Ngc folder contents is the best way to go about solving the issue. This procedure will most likely fix the problem and let you successfully set up a PIN for your device. To do so here is how:

1. Access Windows Explorer and find the directory below:
   C:\Windows\ServiceProfiles\LocalService\AppData\Local\Microsoft\
2. If for some reason you can’t see the AppData folder, enable hidden folders by selecting File, then click on Change folder and search options. Toggle to the View tab, then check the Show hidden files, folders, and drives option. Click on Apply followed by OK.
3. Now, before accessing the Ngc folder, you must take ownership. To get started, right-click on the folder and select Properties. Under the Security tab, click on Advanced option.
4. Now, select the Change button next to the Owner and type in the username of the account in use.
5. Select the Check Names button and click OK.
6. Check the box titled Replace owner on sub contents and objects before clicking on Apply followed by OK.
7. Once done, access the Ngc folder and delete all the content in it.
8. Close the window and reboot the system before attempting to set up your device PIN.

Fix #2: Utilize Local Group Policy

In other instances, the Error 0x80090016 occurs when Windows policy configurations are set to disable the PIN used during the sign-in process. If that is the case, then you need to enable PIN use by following the steps below:

1. Access the Run dialog by simultaneously pressing Windows Logo + R keys.
2. In the text field, type “gpedit.msc” (no quotes) and hit the Enter key.
3. Find the following directory and then locate the Turn on PIN sign-in option, the double-click to edit.
   Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Logon
4. Configure the settings to Enable before selecting Apply for changes to take effect. When done, click on OK.
5. Restart the computer and then attempt to set up your system PIN.

Fix #3: Sync Date and Time

At times, the Error 0x80090016 can be generated due to inconsistent Date and Time settings. A correct Date and Time will enable you to give access to various Windows services. If Date and Time are not set properly, the error code may occur since the system will be failing to access the required services. So, you must configure your system’s Data and Time correctly. To do so, here is how:

1. Simultaneously press Windows Logo + I keys to access the Windows Settings app.
2. Now, find Time & Language and click on it before selecting Date & Time.
3. On the right pane, switch the Set time automatically toggle to ON.
4. Note that for the system to set time automatically, you must be connected to the internet. Select the appropriate time zone.
5. Now, choose Region & Language located on the left pane. Set the Country or region on the right pane to match your actual location.
6. Once done, reboot the system for changes to take effect and check if the issue has been solved.

Fix #4: Uninstall Third-Party Software

As indicated earlier on, this is one of the major causes of the issue. A strict security software suite can block some Windows 10/11 services that need to communicate outside the system. There are other free programs that come bundled with malware. There are also other genuine products that induce processes leading to the occurrence of the error.

In such a scenario, you should trace any of the recent software installed and uninstall them. If you suspect an installed third-party security suite, disable it for a moment and try to set up the PIN. If you don’t encounter the issue, consider uninstalling the entire suite and choosing a reliable driver updater tool.

If you’re constantly experiencing various error codes on your PC, it is likely your system’s registry and files are corrupt. You may also be encountering these errors due to instability issues caused by malicious software. To clean, protect as well as fix these instability issues, its best to install a reliable PC repair software tool. This will also help keep malware from infiltrating your system.