Fix: Something Went Wrong Error 0x80090016 on Windows

The error message ‘Something went wrong’ along with the error code 0x80090016 appears when Windows is unable to set up a PIN for your device. This is usually due to the corruption of the Ngc folder which is located in the system volume. Many of us have been using a password to log into our system for ages, however, since you are able to sign in using your Microsoft account in Windows 10, using a PIN over a password can be a lot more secure and better.

Using a PIN is safer because the PIN is only allocated for a specific device and others cannot access your Microsoft account in case they get their hands on your PIN. However, while setting up a PIN, you might get to face certain issues such as the error code 0x80090016 . You can easily circumvent the issue by implementing a few simple solutions.

What causes the ‘Something Went Wrong’ Error 0x80090016 on Windows 10?

Well, this particular error code doesn’t seem to be caused by many factors rather it is limited to the following elements —

Before you proceed into the solutions, please make sure that you are using an administrator account. The first solution is going to require administrative privileges as you will be accessing a directory that even the administrator accounts have no rights over.

Solution 1: Deleting the Contents of Ngc Folder

Since the corruption of the Ngc folder is the most probable cause of the issue, you will have to deal with it by deleting the contents of the folder. This is most likely to fix your issue and you will be able to set up a PIN successfully. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open up the Windows Explorer and navigate to the following directory:

   C:\Windows\ServiceProfiles\LocalService\AppData\Local\Microsoft\

2. If you are not able to see the AppData folder, you will have to enable the hidden folders by clicking on File and then selecting ‘Change folder and search options’. Switch to the View tab and make sure ‘Show hidden files, folders, and drives’ option is checked. Hit Apply and then click OK.
3. You will not be able to access the Ngc folder without taking over the ownership.
4. To take over ownership, right-click on the folder and click Properties.
5. Switch to the Security tab and click Advanced.
6. Click Change in front of Owner.

   

7. Type in the username of the account that you are currently using.
8. Afterward, click Check Names and then hit OK.

   

9. Make sure that the ‘Replace owner on subcontainers and objects’ box is checked.
10. Click Apply and then hit OK.

    

11. Open up the Ngc folder and delete the all the contents of the folder.
12. Try adding a PIN again.

Solution 2: Using Local Group Policy

In some cases, the error message appears because the Windows policies are configured to disable PIN sign-in. In such a case, you will have to enable the policy and then try adding a PIN. Here’s how to do it:

1. Press Windows Key + R to open Run.
2. Type in ‘gpedit.msc’ and press Enter.
3. Navigate to the following directory:

   Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Logon

4. Locate the ‘Turn on PIN sign-in’ policy and double-click it to edit it.
5. Set it to Enabled and then click Apply and OK.

   

6. Restart your system for it to take effect.