How to Switch to Local Account from Microsoft Account in Windows 11
This tutorial will show you how to switch from a Microsoft account to a local account in Windows 11.
Why Switch Accounts?
You can sign in to Windows 11 using either a local account or a Microsoft account. You can easily switch between the two whenever you want.
When you switch to a local account from a Microsoft account, your profile folder stays the same. Your account folder name won’t change.
Benefits of Using a Microsoft Account:
- Download apps from the Microsoft Store.
- Get your online content automatically in Microsoft apps.
- Sync your settings across all your computers. This includes your browser history, account picture, and color choices.
Benefits of Using a Local Account:
- You create a unique username and account for each computer you use.
- You can remove the password if you choose (though this is not recommended).
- You’ll still need a Microsoft account to download apps from the Microsoft Store.
- Your settings won’t sync across your computers.
Change From a Local Account to a Microsoft Account in Windows – Microsoft Support
Learn how to change your Windows sign in from a local account to a Microsoft account to sync your settings across all your devices.
How to Switch to a Local Account
- Open Settings by pressing
Win+I. - Click on Accounts on the left side. Then click on Your info on the right side.
- Open Your info settings
- Click on the Sign in with a local account instead link on the right side.
If you see a Stop signing in to all Microsoft apps automatically link instead, you are already using a local account. You just have Microsoft app sign-in turned on. Clicking this link will turn off Microsoft app sign-in
- Click Next to confirm.
- Enter your Microsoft account password to verify your identity.
- Set up your local account by completing these steps:
- Enter a User name for your local account.
- Enter a New password for your local account.
- Type the password again in Confirm password.
- Type a Password hint you’ll remember.
- Click Next when finished.
You can leave the password fields empty if you don’t want a password. However, using a password is recommended for better security. You can also add security questions later for extra protection.
- ⚠️ ADMIN REQUIRED Click Sign out and finish when you’re ready to switch to your local account.
- The next time you sign in to Windows 11, you will use your new local account.
Summary
Switching from a Microsoft account to a local account in Windows 11 is simple. Open Settings, go to Accounts and Your info, then click “Sign in with a local account instead.” Enter your Microsoft password to verify, then create a new local account with a username and password. Finally, sign out and finish. Your next login will use your new local account. Remember that local accounts won’t sync settings across devices, but you’ll have more control over your individual computer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Switch Accounts?
Can I switch from a Microsoft account to a local account?
Yes, you can easily switch from a Microsoft account to a local account in Windows 11. Navigate to Settings, select Accounts, then choose Your info. Click the 'Sign in with a local account instead' link and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the transition while keeping your profile folder intact.
Is Microsoft phasing out local accounts?
Microsoft has not officially phased out local accounts, but they strongly encourage using a Microsoft account for Windows 11. While the option to create or switch to a local account remains available, Microsoft often hides this choice during the initial setup process to promote cloud-based features and cross-device synchronization.
How do I login locally instead of domain?
To log in locally instead of using a domain, select 'Other user' at the Windows sign-in screen. Type a period followed by a backslash (.\) before your local username. This tells Windows to authenticate against the local machine's database rather than the network domain controller, allowing you to access your local account.
Is it better to have a local account or a Microsoft account?
The better choice depends on your needs. A Microsoft account is ideal if you want to sync settings, browser history, and download apps from the Microsoft Store across devices. A local account is better for users who prioritize privacy, offline access, and prefer not to link their computer to cloud services.
Was this guide helpful?
Leave a Reply