How to create a local user account in Windows

Local user accounts keep sign-in credentials on a single Windows PC, which fits shared workstations, kiosks, and offline systems where a Microsoft account adds unnecessary dependencies. Separate local profiles reduce accidental data mixing and provide cleaner access control for files and apps.

Local accounts are stored in the machine’s local security database and receive a profile under C:\Users when first used to sign in. Account type (standard or administrator) controls what system-wide changes are allowed, while elevation prompts can still use an existing administrator password for one-off administrative tasks.

Creating or promoting accounts requires an administrator session, and granting administrator rights increases the blast radius of malware, mistakes, and weak passwords. Some Windows 11 setups heavily encourage a Microsoft account during initial device setup, but additional local accounts can still be created later from Settings. Keep at least one known administrator account available before signing out of the last admin profile.

Related: How to access a shared folder in Windows
Related: How to enable Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) in Windows

Steps to create a local user account in Windows 11:

  1. Sign in to Windows 11 with an administrator account.
  2. Open Settings using Win + I.
  3. Select Accounts → Other users.

    On Windows 10, use Settings → Accounts → Family & other users.

  4. Click Add account under Other users.
  5. Click I don't have this person's sign-in information.
  6. Click Add a user without a Microsoft account.
  7. Enter the local account username.
  8. Enter a password for the local account.
  9. Enter the password again in Confirm password.
  10. Enter a password hint.
  11. Select the security questions and enter their answers.
  12. Click Next to create the local account.
  13. (Optional) Select the new account entry under Other users.
  14. (Optional) Click Change account type.
  15. (Optional) Select Administrator and click OK.

    Assigning Administrator privileges allows system-wide changes and should be limited to accounts that require it.

  16. Sign out from Start → User icon → Sign out.
  17. Sign in using the new local account.
  18. Confirm the account is marked as a Local account under Settings → Accounts → Your info.