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How to Identify Windows 11 Account Type

Richard
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Richard
Oct 8, 2022 Updated Jul 14, 2026 3 min read
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Windows 11 account types determine your computer access level, with Administrator and Standard being the two main options.

An Administrator account gives you full control to install software and change system settings, while a Standard account has fewer permissions to protect your PC from accidental changes.

Knowing your account type, especially in Windows 11 version 23H2, helps you understand what you can and cannot do on your computer.

You can easily find this information within your PC’s settings.

⚡ Quick Answer

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?

Once complete, you’ll know if you’re using 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

Knowing your Windows 11 account type is important because it dictates what you can do on your computer. You can check if you have an Administrator or Standard account by opening the Settings app and navigating to the Accounts section.

1. Click on the Start menu and select Settings to open the app.

Windows 11 Settings button for account management
windows 11 new settings button

2. In the Settings app, click on Accounts on the left menu.

Windows 11 account tile in Settings app
windows 11 account tile in settings

3. On the Accounts page, click on the Your info tile to expand it.

Your info tile displaying account details in Windows 11
windows 11 your info tile in settings

4. On the Your info page, your account name and type will display clearly.

Local account information in Windows 11 settings
windows 11 your info local account

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.

Microsoft account information in Windows 11 settings
windows 11 account microsoft account

Difference between Standard and Administrator accounts

💡Tip
A Standard user can perform most daily tasks like browsing the web or using apps. 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)

If you need to change a Windows 11 account type, for example, from Standard to Administrator, you must be logged in as an administrator first. This process lets you grant another user more or fewer permissions on your computer.

1. Open Settings and go to Accounts.

2. Click on Other users or Family & other users.

3. 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

If you’re comfortable with more advanced tools, you can check your status using the terminal, which is also known as Command Prompt. Press the Windows key, type ‘cmd’ into the search bar, and press Enter.

💻Code
net user genericuser

Look for the Local Group Memberships line to see if the account is an Administrator.

Summary

📝Good to Know
Identifying your Windows 11 account type helps with system security and management. 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.

Can I have two administrator accounts on 🪟 Windows 11?

Yes, you can have multiple administrator accounts on a single Windows 11 device. This is often useful if multiple people use the same computer and each requires full control to manage their own software, system updates, and security settings independently without interfering with other user profiles.

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Tags: #Windows 11
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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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