Windows 10 can show local and Microsoft-linked user accounts through Settings, Control Panel, command-line tools, and Computer Management on editions that include it.
Steps
- Open Settings > Accounts > Family & other users to see many configured accounts.
- For a quick command-line list, run `net user` in Command Prompt.
- On Pro/Enterprise systems, Computer Management > Local Users and Groups shows local accounts in more detail.
- Remember that Microsoft accounts may display a friendly name/email while Windows also has an internal local profile/account name.
- If auditing a shared PC, check which accounts are administrators before deleting or changing anything.
How it works
A profile folder under `C:\Users` is not definitive proof of a currently active account; folders can remain after migrations/deletions. Domain/Entra accounts may be managed by an organization.
Important considerations
Windows 10 is unsupported. Do not delete unfamiliar accounts on a managed PC; ask the administrator and preserve data first.
Practical guidance
PowerShell can also enumerate local accounts with `Get-LocalUser` on supported Windows editions/environments. For login history or currently signed-in sessions, account enumeration alone is not enough; use appropriate Event Viewer/session tools and organization policy. Avoid exposing usernames unnecessarily when sharing screenshots.
Additional details
Before removing an old user, open that account’s profile data with proper authorization and back up Documents/Desktop/Downloads and app-specific files. OneDrive online-only files may not exist locally. Deleting an account can permanently remove its local profile data.
Matthew Burleigh is the head writer at solveyourtech.com, where he covers topics like the iPhone, Microsoft Office, and Google apps. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has over 15 years of IT experience.
He has been writing online since 2008 and has published thousands of articles that have been read millions of times.