Comprehensive Guide on Creating a New User Account in Windows 11 – Local and Microsoft Account Options

Key Notes

  • Windows 11 supports both local and Microsoft accounts for user management.
  • Creating users can be achieved through Settings or during installation.
  • Switching between account types is straightforward and retains user data.

Mastering User Account Management in Windows 11

Setting up user accounts is a significant step when starting with Windows 11. Choosing between a local and a Microsoft account affects your access to features and functionality.

Comparison between Online and Local User Accounts

Understanding the differences between online (Microsoft) accounts and local accounts is essential for decided which fits your needs best.

Benefits of a Microsoft (Online) Account

A Microsoft account allows for seamless integration and synchronization across devices. Enjoy access to the Microsoft Store and automatic syncing of your settings and applications.

Advantages of a Local (Offline) Account

While lacking the synchronization features of a Microsoft account, local accounts provide a straightforward, offline user experience. However, customizing settings on multiple devices requires repetitive configurations. Users can choose to bypass passwords for quicker access.

Creating a New User on Windows 11 (Online)

Creating a new user with a Microsoft account can be done in several ways. Note that any email can be used in place of an Outlook account.

Method 1: Through Settings

  1. Press Win + I to open the Settings. Select Accounts on the left menu.
  2. Choose Other users on the right side.
  3. Click on Add account.
  4. In the sign-in window, enter your email address and press Next.
  5. Click Finish once complete.

The new user will be prompted for additional information upon their first login.

Method 2: During Windows 11 Installation

You can set up a new Microsoft account as part of the initial Windows 11 installation process by following these steps:

  1. Follow the setup prompts until you see the “Let’s add your Microsoft account” request. Enter your email and press Next.
  2. Confirm your identity with your password.
  3. Click on Create PIN to set up a new PIN.
  4. Enter your choice of PIN and click OK.
  5. Select whether to restore files from a previous PC or to set up as a new device, then follow the instructions on-screen.

Creating a New User on Windows 11 (Offline)

Here are methods for creating a local user account in Windows 11.

Method 1: Through Settings

  1. Press Win + I to access Settings and select Accounts.
  2. Click on Other users.
  3. Select Add account under “Other users”
  4. Choose I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.
  5. Select Add a user without a Microsoft account.
  6. Input the username and password (password is optional), then click Next.
  7. Your local account will be created successfully.

Method 2: Using User Accounts (netplwiz)

A second method using the Control Panel for local accounts:

  1. Open the RUN dialog with Win + R, type netplwiz, and hit Enter.
  2. Click on Add.
  3. Select Sign in without a Microsoft account.
  4. Choose Local account.
  5. Enter the desired username and password or leave it blank, then click Next.
  6. Complete the process by clicking Finish.

Method 3: Using the Command Prompt

For those who prefer using command lines, here’s how to create an offline local account:

  1. Open Start, search for cmd, and choose Run as administrator.
  2. To add a user with a password, enter: net user "UserName" "Password" /add and hit Enter.
  3. To create an account without a password, use: net user "UserName" /add and press Enter.

Method 4: Using the Local Users and Groups Utility

Steps to create a local account using this utility:

  1. Open the RUN dialog with Win + R, then input lusrmgr.msc and hit Enter.
  2. Click on Users in the left sidebar.
  3. Select More Actions, then New User.
  4. Enter the username and password in the new window.
  5. Uncheck Users must change password at next logon if necessary.
  6. Click Create.

Method 5: While Installing Windows 11

During the Windows 11 setup, you can also create a local account:

  1. At the “Let’s add your Microsoft account” screen, select Sign-in options.
  2. Choose Offline account.
  3. Click on Skip for now.

Converting from an Online to an Offline Windows 11 Account

To convert your online Windows 11 account to a local one, follow these steps:

  1. Open Settings with Win + I, then click on Accounts.
  2. Click on Your info.
  3. Next, click on Sign in with a local account instead.
  4. Click Next.
  5. Enter your PIN/password.
  6. Optionally set a new password, then click Next.
  7. Select Sign out and finish.

This preserves personal settings and data, while removing Microsoft account integration.

Switching from an Offline Windows 11 Account to an Online Account

To link your local account to a Microsoft account, follow these instructions:

  1. Press Win + I to access Settings, then select Accounts.
  2. Click on Your info.
  3. In the ‘Account settings’ area, select Sign in with a Microsoft account instead.
  4. Input your email and press Next.
  5. Type your current Windows password when prompted, then click Next.
  6. Click Next again and establish a new PIN.

You’ve successfully transitioned your offline account to an online one!

Summary

This guide covers the essential methods to create, manage, and switch user accounts on Windows 11, emphasizing the difference between local and Microsoft accounts, and providing clear steps for each process.

Conclusion

Establishing user accounts in Windows 11 is fundamental for both personal and organizational usage. Whether you opt for online or offline accounts, having the knowledge to navigate these options ensures a tailored experience for every user.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to set up Windows 11 Home without a Microsoft account?

Yes, although Windows 11 Home prefers online setup, you can bypass it by pressing Alt + F4 at the internet connection screen.

Can I convert from a local account to a Microsoft account on Windows 11?

Indeed! Switching from a local to a Microsoft account is easily done through the Settings app.