Creating a guest account in Windows 11 allows you to let other people use your computer without giving them access to your personal files or settings. Here’s a quick overview: you need to add a new user through the settings menu, but instead of adding a Microsoft account, you create a local account. Then, you limit the permissions of this account so it functions as a guest account.
How to Create a Guest Account in Windows 11
By following the steps below, you’ll set up a local user account on your Windows 11 computer and restrict its permissions to act as a guest account.
Step 1: Open Settings
Press the Start button and select the "Settings" option.
The Start button is the Windows logo usually found at the bottom left corner of your screen. Clicking on it will open up a menu, where you should see the "Settings" gear icon.
Step 2: Navigate to Accounts
Go to "Accounts" in the Settings menu.
When you open Settings, you’ll see several icons. Click on "Accounts" to manage user information. This section handles all things related to users, including adding new users.
Step 3: Add a Family Member or Other User
Select "Family & other users" from the Accounts menu.
This option is where you manage all users on the computer. You can add family members or other users who need access to the computer.
Step 4: Add Account
Click "Add account" under the "Other users" section.
This will prompt a new window to appear. It’s where you’ll set up the new account.
Step 5: Skip Microsoft Account
Choose the option that says, "I don’t have this person’s sign-in information" and then "Add a user without a Microsoft account."
This step is crucial because a guest account should be a local account, not linked to a Microsoft account.
Step 6: Create Username and Password
Enter a username and password for the new account, and click "Next."
Make sure the username is something easy to identify as a guest account. You can skip the password if you want it to be super simple for guest users to access.
Step 7: Set Account Type
Click on the new account you just created and select "Change account type."
In this section, you can change the account from an administrator to a standard user, which has fewer permissions.
Step 8: Set to Standard User
Select "Standard User" from the Account type dropdown and click "OK."
This step ensures that the new user doesn’t have administrative privileges and can only use the basic features of your computer.
After completing these steps, you’ll have a guest account set up on your Windows 11 PC. This account will have limited access and won’t be able to modify any of the main user’s settings or files.
Tips for Creating a Guest Account in Windows 11
- Always create a local account for guests to avoid linking it to your Microsoft account.
- Use a clear and simple username like "Guest" to avoid confusion.
- You can set up a password, but leaving it blank makes it easier for guests to access.
- Review the account settings periodically to ensure the guest account remains secure.
- Regularly delete the guest account if it’s no longer needed to free up resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of a guest account?
A guest account allows people to use your computer without accessing your personal files and settings.
Can a guest account install software?
No, a guest account typically has restricted permissions and cannot install software or make changes to system settings.
Is it safe to create a guest account?
Yes, it’s safe as long as you set the account type to "Standard User" to limit permissions.
Can I set time limits for a guest account?
Windows 11 doesn’t have a built-in feature for time limits on guest accounts, but third-party software can help with this.
How do I delete a guest account?
Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users, select the account, and choose "Remove."
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Accounts.
- Select "Family & other users."
- Click "Add account."
- Choose to add a user without a Microsoft account.
- Create a username and password.
- Change the account type.
- Set to Standard User.
Conclusion
Setting up a guest account in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can enhance the security and privacy of your personal information. By following a few simple steps, you can allow others to use your computer without the risk of them accessing your files or altering your settings. Whether you’re sharing your device with a family member, friend, or someone else, creating a guest account is a smart way to manage multiple users.
Remember to keep an eye on the guest account and remove it when it’s no longer needed. With these steps, you can easily manage a shared computer and ensure everyone has a smooth, secure experience.
For further reading, consider exploring additional Windows 11 features and settings that can help you customize and secure your user experience even more.

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.