How to Identify Windows 11 Account Type
Windows 11 account types split into 2 main options: Administrator and Standard. Administrator accounts give you full control to install apps and change system settings, while Standard accounts have fewer permissions to protect your PC from accidental changes.
Checking your account type takes only a few clicks inside the Settings app . Knowing which type you use helps you figure out why certain apps or system tweaks might need extra permission to run.
Navigate to Settings, click Accounts, then select Your info to view your account name and type, indicating if it’s a Microsoft or Local account with Administrator or Standard privileges.
What happens when done?
After completing these steps, the screen reveals whether the profile uses a Local account or a Microsoft account. You’ll also confirm your Administrator or Standard user permissions, allowing you to manage your system settings and security features with confidence.
How to check your account type in Settings
Your Windows 11 account type determines whether you can install software and change system settings. You can check your Windows 11 account type in seconds by opening the main Settings app , selecting the Accounts menu, and looking at the profile details listed at the top of the page to see if you have Administrator or Standard access.
1. Click on the Start menu and select Settings to open the app.
2. In the Settings app, click on Accounts on the left menu.
3. On the Accounts page, click on the Your info tile to expand it.
4. On the Your info page, your account name and type will display clearly.
If you see a Local Account, a link to "Sign in with a Microsoft account instead" will appear. If you see an email address, you are using a Microsoft account.
Difference between Standard and Administrator accounts
An Administrator has elevated privileges, meaning they can install software, change system settings, and manage other user accounts. Using a Standard account for daily use is a best practice for security.
How to change your account type (Requires Admin Privileges)
A Windows 11 account type can be switched from a restricted user to a full administrator through the Settings app, provided you are currently signed in with an administrator account. This lets you grant another person full control over the computer or take away their ability to install apps and change system settings.
- Open Settings and go to Accounts.
- Click on Other users or Family & other users.
- Select the account you want to change.
4. Click Change account type and select either Administrator or Standard user from the dropdown menu.
How to check via Command Prompt
Command Prompt, the built-in Windows terminal, offers an alternative method for checking account status. Press the Windows key, type 'cmd' into the search bar, and press Enter.
net user genericuser
Look for the Local Group Memberships line to see if the account is an Administrator.
Summary
By using the Settings app or Command Prompt, you can distinguish between Local and Microsoft accounts and verify your permission levels. Remember that changing account types requires administrator privileges to ensure system integrity.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard is a writer at Geek Rewind who turns complex IT tasks into clear, step-by-step guides. He draws on years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, focusing on Windows, Linux and WordPress: the problems people actually run into, and the fixes that work. His server and WordPress guides come from systems he runs himself. Richard builds and maintains the platform behind Geek Rewind, from its Ubuntu servers and Nginx configuration to its custom WordPress plugins. Many new tutorials start with readers' questions, and he's always glad to answer them in the comments.
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