Windows 10 setup nudges you toward signing in with a Microsoft account, but you can still create a local account that signs in with just a username and password stored on the PC. On Windows 10, it’s simpler than on Windows 11: in most cases, you only need to skip the internet connection during setup. This guide covers that method, the options on Windows 10 Pro, how to switch an existing PC to a local account, and the trade-offs to know about.
Quick Answer
During setup, unplug the Ethernet cable and don’t connect to Wi-Fi. On the network screen, click I don’t have internet, then Continue with limited setup, and create a local username and password. On a PC that’s already set up, go to Settings > Accounts > Your info > Sign in with a local account instead.
Before You Start
- Windows 10 support ended in October 2025. Windows 10 no longer gets regular security updates unless you’re enrolled in Extended Security Updates. Plan accordingly, or install Windows 11 if your PC qualifies (see our guide to skipping the Microsoft account on Windows 11).
- Local accounts don’t sync settings, and they don’t back up your BitLocker or device encryption recovery key automatically. Save that key yourself.
- You can add a Microsoft account later for the Microsoft Store, OneDrive, or other apps without converting your whole Windows account.
Method 1: Skip the Internet During Setup (Home and Pro)
- Start Windows 10 setup (a new PC, a reset PC, or a clean install). Don’t plug in an Ethernet cable.
- Choose your region and keyboard layout.
- On Let’s connect you to a network, click I don’t have internet in the lower-left corner.
- On the next screen, click Continue with limited setup.
- Accept the license agreement.
- Enter a name for the account, then a password, and answer three security questions.
- Choose your privacy settings and finish setup.
After you reach the desktop, connect to the internet and run Windows Update.
Method 2: Windows 10 Pro Options
- On the How would you like to set up? screen, choose Set up for personal use.
- On the Microsoft account sign-in screen, look for Offline account or Domain join instead in the lower-left corner and click it.
- Click Limited experience (or No) if asked to reconsider, then create your local account.
The exact wording depends on your Windows 10 version. If these options don’t appear, use Method 1.
Method 3: Switch to a Local Account After Setup
- Open Settings > Accounts > Your info.
- Click Sign in with a local account instead.
- Verify with your PIN or password, then enter a new username, password, and hint.
- Click Sign out and finish.
Your files and apps stay in place. Your user folder keeps the name created during setup.
Local Account vs. Microsoft Account
| Local account | Microsoft account | |
|---|---|---|
| Sign-in | Username and password stored on the PC | Email and password (online) |
| Settings sync and OneDrive | No | Yes |
| Password recovery | Security questions | Online reset |
| Windows license linking | No | Yes, which helps with reactivation after hardware changes |
| Privacy | Less data tied to an online account | More integrated services |
Troubleshooting
There’s no “I don’t have internet” option
Make sure the PC isn’t connected by Ethernet. If a Wi-Fi network was already joined, press Shift + F10 to open Command Prompt, run ipconfig /release, and go back a step.
Setup asks for a Microsoft account anyway
Some OEM setups add extra screens. Look for Offline account or Limited experience links, or complete setup with a Microsoft account and use Method 3.
I forgot my local account password
Click Reset password on the sign-in screen and answer your security questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Microsoft Store with a local account?
Yes. Sign in within the Store app only. Windows asks whether to switch your whole account, so choose Microsoft apps only (or similar).
Will Windows 10 still activate?
Yes. Activation uses your PC’s digital license or product key, not your account type.
Summary
- Stay offline during setup.
- Click I don’t have internet > Continue with limited setup.
- Create your username, password, and security questions.
- Or switch later in Settings > Accounts > Your info.
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.