How to Create a Guest Account on Windows 11

Do you have friends or family who need to borrow your computer? You might want to let them use it without giving them access to your private files or settings. While older versions of Windows had a built-in guest account, Windows 11 does not. However, you can still create a local account that works just like one.

Why create a guest account?

Creating a separate account keeps your personal files, browser history, and settings safe. When a guest uses this account, they cannot change your system settings or mess with your personal data. It is the best way to share your PC securely.

What happens when you are done?

Once you finish these steps, you will have a new, restricted user profile on your computer. Your guest can log in using this profile, and their activities will be kept separate from yours.

You can create a local account local account with limited rights to serve as a guest account.

Method 1: Using System Settings

You can manage your user accounts through the System Settings pane.

1. Open Settings by pressing the Windows key + I on your keyboard.
2. Click on Accounts in the left menu.
3. Select Family & other users.

4. Look for the Other users section and click the Add account button. (Requires admin privileges)

5. When the Microsoft sign-in window pops up, click I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.

6. Click Add a user without a Microsoft account.

7. Type a name for the account (like “GuestUser”). Windows will not let you name it “Guest.”
8. Leave the password fields blank to make it easy for guests to sign in.
9. Click Next.

Your new account will now appear in the Other users list.

It will also show up as an option on your sign-in screen.

Method 2: Using Command Prompt

You can also use the Windows Command Prompt to create an account quickly. Make sure to open the Command Prompt as administrator as an administrator.

(Requires admin privileges) Type the following command and press Enter:

net user GuestAccount /add /active:yes

That is all you need to do!

Summary

Windows 11 does not have a native guest account, but you can easily make a local account to serve the same purpose. By following the steps above, you can provide guests with their own space on your computer. This keeps your personal files private and ensures your main system settings stay exactly the way you like them.