How to Switch to a Local Account in Windows 11
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How to Switch to a Local Account in Windows 11
Windows 11 sets most PCs up with a Microsoft account sign-in. If you'd rather sign in with an account that only exists on this PC - a local account - you can switch in Settings without reinstalling Windows or losing your files.
Microsoft recommends a Microsoft account, because it syncs settings and backs up things like your BitLocker recovery key. A local account is a fine choice too; just read what changes below before you switch.
Before You Switch: Save These
- Your BitLocker or device encryption recovery key. On many Windows 11 PCs the drive is encrypted and the key is stored in your Microsoft account. Make sure you can find it there, and also save or print a copy. See how to find your BitLocker recovery key.
- Your OneDrive files. If your Desktop or Documents are backed up to OneDrive, check that everything you need is also stored on the PC (files marked "online-only" are not). Back up first - see how to back up your Windows 11 PC.
- A new password you will remember. A local account password can't be reset online. Write down the password hint and set up security questions.
Switch From a Microsoft Account to a Local Account
These are the steps from Microsoft Support:
- Open Settings > Accounts > Your info.
- Select Sign in with a local account instead. (You only see this link when you are signed in with a Microsoft account.)
- Windows asks you to confirm who you are with your current PIN or password.
- Type a user name, a password and a password hint. The user name must be different from any other account on the PC.
- Select Next, then Sign out and finish.
- Sign in again with the new local account details.
Your desktop, files and apps are all still there. Your user folder name (C:\Users\...) does not change.
The Link Is Missing?
- Work or school PCs managed by an organization often hide it. Ask your IT team.
- You may already be on a local account: under Your info it says Local account under your name.
What Changes With a Local Account
| Microsoft account | Local account | |
|---|---|---|
| Forgotten password | Reset online | Security questions or a reset disk only |
| Settings and passwords sync | Yes | No |
| OneDrive, Store, Outlook | Signed in automatically | Sign in to each app separately |
| BitLocker recovery key backup | Saved to your account | You must save it yourself |
| Find my device | Available | Not available |
Windows Hello (PIN, face, fingerprint) still works with a local account. You may need to set the PIN up again in Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
Signing In to Apps After the Switch
When an app like the Microsoft Store or Outlook asks you to sign in, enter your Microsoft account. If Windows offers to "use this account everywhere on your device", choose the option for this app only (often a link that says Microsoft apps only or similar). Otherwise Windows may turn your PC sign-in back into a Microsoft account.
Switching Back
Open Settings > Accounts > Your info and select Sign in with a Microsoft account instead. Enter your Microsoft account email and password and follow the prompts.
Forgot the Local Account Password Later?
If you set security questions, select Reset password on the sign-in screen after a wrong attempt. Other options are in forgot your Windows 11 password. If no option works, the last resort is resetting the PC, which can remove your files - another reason to keep a backup.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will switching to a local account delete my files?
No. Your files, desktop and installed apps stay. Only the way you sign in changes. OneDrive stops syncing until you sign in to the OneDrive app separately.
Why don't I see Sign in with a local account instead?
The link only appears when you are signed in with a Microsoft account. It is also often missing on work or school PCs managed by an organization.
Can I still use Outlook, OneDrive and the Microsoft Store?
Yes. You can sign in to each app with your Microsoft account. Choose the option that signs in to that app only, otherwise Windows may switch the PC back to the Microsoft account.
How do I switch back to a Microsoft account?
Open Settings > Accounts > Your info and select Sign in with a Microsoft account instead, then follow the prompts.
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