To create a local account on Windows 11, open Settings > Accounts > Other users, click Add account, choose I don’t have this person’s sign-in information, then Add a user without a Microsoft account. Enter a user name, password, and security questions, and click Next. You need an administrator account to add users.
A local account signs in only on this PC and doesn’t sync settings or files through a Microsoft account.
Quick Answer
Settings > Accounts > Other users > Add account > I don’t have this person’s sign-in information > Add a user without a Microsoft account.
Add a Local Account in Settings
- Sign in with an administrator account and press Win + I.
- Go to Accounts > Other users.
- Next to Add other user, click Add account.
- Click I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.
- Click Add a user without a Microsoft account.
- Type a user name and password, answer three security questions, and click Next.
The new account is a standard user. To give it admin rights, see how to give an account administrator rights in Windows 11.
Other Ways to Add a Local Account
- netplwiz: Press Win + R, type netplwiz, click Add, then Sign in without a Microsoft account > Local account.
- Command line: In Terminal (Admin), run
net user NewUser * /addand type a password when asked. - Computer Management (Pro and higher): Local Users and Groups > Users > right-click > New User.
Local Account vs. Microsoft Account
| Feature | Local account | Microsoft account |
|---|---|---|
| Internet needed to sign in | No | Only the first time |
| Password recovery | Security questions or another admin | Online reset |
| Settings and OneDrive sync | No | Yes |
| Microsoft Store purchases | Sign in separately in the Store | Built in |
| BitLocker/device encryption key backup | Save it yourself | Saved to the account online |
What About During Windows Setup?
Windows 11 Home and Pro setup asks for a Microsoft account for most personal installations, and Microsoft has been removing unofficial ways to skip that step. The supported approach is to finish setup, then add a local account in Settings as shown above. Work and school PCs follow your organization’s setup process.
After setup, see how to change your password on Windows 11.
Once it exists, see how to sign into a local account.
Troubleshooting
- Add account is grayed out: You’re signed in as a standard user, or the PC is managed by an organization.
- The new user can’t install apps: Standard users need an administrator to approve installs.
- You forgot the local account password: Answer the security questions at the sign-in screen, or have another admin reset it; see getting back in after a forgotten password.
- You no longer need the account: See how to remove an account from Windows 11.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch my own Microsoft account to a local account?
On many Windows 11 versions, Settings > Accounts > Your info offers Sign in with a local account instead. If the option isn’t shown, create a new local account and move your files to it.
Is a local account more private?
It shares less with Microsoft online, but you lose sync and easy password recovery.
Does a local account need a password?
You can leave it blank, but a password is strongly recommended.
Summary
- Sign in as an administrator.
- Open Settings > Accounts > Other users > Add account.
- Choose to add a user without a Microsoft account.
- Set a name, password, and security questions.
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.