A local Windows account exists only on one PC. It does not require an email address, does not sync settings online, and is useful for shared computers, children, test accounts, or anyone who wants Windows sign-in separate from Microsoft services.
These steps apply to Windows 10 and Windows 11. Windows 11 hides the local-account path more aggressively during setup, but it is still possible.
Does This Affect You?
Choose a local account if the person using the PC does not need OneDrive sync, Microsoft Store sign-in, Find My Device, or settings synchronization. You can add one after Windows is installed, create one during setup, or convert your current Microsoft account to local.
Add a Local Account After Windows Is Installed
- Open Settings > Accounts > Other users. On some Windows versions this appears as Family & other users.
- Click Add account under Other users.
- When Microsoft asks for sign-in information, choose I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.
- On the next screen, choose Add a user without a Microsoft account.
- Enter a username, optional password, and security questions, then click Next.
- The account is created as a standard user. To make it an administrator, select it, choose Change account type, and pick Administrator.
Create a Local Account During Windows Setup
- At the network step, avoid connecting to Wi-Fi or disconnect Ethernet if possible.
- Choose I don’t have internet when that option appears.
- Select Continue with limited setup.
- Enter the local username.
- Create a password and security questions if you want password protection.
- Finish setup. Windows will build the profile without linking it to a Microsoft account.
Switch Your Current Microsoft Account to Local
To convert your existing profile instead of creating another one, open Settings > Accounts > Your info and choose Sign in with a local account instead. Follow the prompts. Your files, apps, and profile remain in place.
Important Local Account Notes
What You Lose Without Microsoft Sign-In
A local account will not automatically sync wallpaper, browser data, OneDrive backup, Microsoft Store purchases that require sign-in, or Find My Device. For a single shared PC this may be fine; for multiple Windows devices a Microsoft account is more convenient.
You Can Link It Later
The choice is reversible. Open Your info and choose Sign in with a Microsoft account instead if you want cloud features later.
Password Recovery Is Local Too
A local account password is stored on that PC. If it is forgotten, recovery depends on security questions, a password reset disk, or another administrator account on the same computer.
Sources
- Microsoft Support: Create a local user or administrator account in Windows
- Microsoft Support: Sign in with a local account instead of a Microsoft account
- Microsoft Learn: Local accounts overview