Samsung Galaxy Alpha Screen Lock Methods [Complete Guide]

This guide elaborates the screen lock methods on the Galaxy Alpha. It is primarily aimed at helping new users of the Galaxy Alpha in setting up and changing their device screen lock method to prevent others from accessing personal information.


Where to go first?


To configure or change the screen lock method on the Galaxy Alpha, go to Apps, tap on Settings, select Lock Screen, tap on Screen Lock and finally, select the lock method you want to use. Generally, an unlock code is required to unlock your device by then.


In case you forgot the unlock code, you need to take your device to a Samsung Service Center to reset your device or contact your phone carrier for further assistance and recommendation.



Screen Lock Methods on Alpha Setup



Following are the available screen lock methods you can use to unlock your Galaxy Alpha:


1. Pattern - this requires you to draw a pattern by connecting four dots or more, and then draw the patter again to confirm it. It is also recommended to set up a backup PIN to unlock your device screen, in case you forget the pattern.

2. PIN -this option requires you to use a PIN consisting of numbers (at least four) only. You will need to enter the numbers and then enter the password again to confirm it.

3. Password - passwords must be alphanumeric or consists of characters and numbers of at least four characters including numbers and symbols. Enter the password again to confirm.

4. Fingerprint - for fingerprint unlock setup, you will be required to register you fingerprints to unlock the device screen using finger scanner.



Finger Scanner on Galaxy Alpha



There are certain conditions that must be met to get better fingerprint recognition. They are as follow:


1. The Fingerprint recognition sensor is located in the Home button. So make sure the Home button is not scratched or damaged by any metal objects like coins, keys and necklaces.

1. Screen protector may sometimes affect the feature's performance, causing the fingerprint recognition sensor to malfunction. To improve fingerprint sensitivity, removing the screen protector is recommended.

3. Fingerprints must be clean and clear enough to be recognized. This means you have to ensure that the fingerprint recognition area and your fingers are clean and dry, and no wrinkles or scars as possible. Fingerprints from small or thin fingers may not be recognized by the device. Therefore, register fingerprints of the hand you used most often to perform tasks on the device.

4. Finger movement speed must be moderate to allow the device to recognize it. Dragging your finger too quickly or slowly is discouraged.

5. Avoid using this feature in dry environments as dry environments and static electricity likely build up in the device. Also discharge static electricity by touching a metal object before using this feature.



How to Register Fingerprints on the Galaxy Alpha



Follow these steps to register your fingerprint:


1. Tap on Apps.
2. Tap on Settings.
3. Select Finger Scanner.
4. Tap on Fingerprint manager.


If you are registering more fingerprints, you will be prompted with a fingerprint recognition pop-up window. If so, scan a registered fingerprint on the device and then tap.


5. Now place your finger on the fingerprint area at the bottom center of the screen.
6. Tap and hold the screen in the fingerprint area.
7. Drag your fingerprint downwards over the Home button.
8. Repeat this action using the same finger until the fingerprint is registered on your device.


The device may not recognize your fingerprints if you bend your finger or use a fingertip.


9. To finish scanning your fingerprint, tap Done.


You may also tap on Register to register your thumbprint for when you hold the device in one hand.


10. Enter the alternative password, then tap Continue.
11. Enter the alternative password again to confirm it, and then tap OK.


An alternative password can be used instead of scanning your fingerprints.


12. If prompted, tap OK on the fingerprint lock pop-up window.


You can now use your fingerprints to unlock your device screen.



Manage Registered Fingerprints on Galaxy Alpha



You can also delete or remove your registered fingerprints. Follow these steps:


1. Tap on Apps.
2. Tap on Settings.
3. Select Finger Scanner.
4. Tap on Fingerprint Manager.
5. Tap on Deregister to delete fingerprints.
6. Select fingerprints to remove or delete.
7. Tap Done.
8. Tap OK.
9. To rename a fingerprint, tap and hold a fingerprint, tap to enter a new name, and the tap OK to confirm.



Change Alternative Passwords on Galaxy Alpha



You can also change alternative password that you use as an alternative to scanning your fingerprints whenever you want. Here's how:


1. Tap Apps.
2. Tap Settings.
3. Select Finger Scanner.
4. Change alternative password.
5. Now scan a registered fingerprint or tap to enter backup password.
6. Enter a new password and then tap Continue.
7. Enter the password again and tap OK to confirm.





How to Unlock Galaxy Alpha with the Registered Fingerprints



Follow these steps to unlock your device screen with registered fingerprints:


1. Tap Apps.
2. Tap Settings.
3. Select Finger Scanner.
4. Tap Screen Lock.
5. Select Fingerprint.


Alternately, you can just tap on Apps, select Settings, tap Lock Screen, select Screen Lock and the tap on Fingerprint.


You can also use your fingerprints to verify your Samsung Account password instead of using your password. To do so, you will have to enable Verify Samsung account feature on your device first. Here's how:


1. Tap on Apps.
2. Tap on Settings.
3. Select Finger Scanner.
4. Tap on the Verify Samsung account switch to turn the feature on or enable it.
5. Enter your Samsung account password.
6. Tap Confirm.


Fingerprints can also be used when signing in to your other accounts or to webpages that support password saving. Here's how:


1. Tap on Apps.
2. Tap Settings.
3. Select Finger Scanner.
4. Tap Web sign-in.
5. Tap the Web sign-in switch to enable or turn the feature on.
6. Now open a webpage that you want to sign in to using a fingerprint.
7. Enter your username and password.
8. Tap the webpage sign in button.
9. Check the box next to Sign in using your fingerprints.
10. Tap Remember.


Finally, you can also use your fingerprint to purchase items via PayPal. (This feature may not be available in some regions or service provider,  though). But here's how to do it:


1. Tap Apps.
2. Tap Settings.
3. Select Finger Scanner.
4. Tap on Pay with PayPal.
5. Tap Install under FIDO Ready Support.
6. Tap Link under PayPal account.
7. Follow the on-screen prompts to sign in to the PayPal website and register your fingerprints.


And that would be all for this guide.