You most likely use a Microsoft account on Windows 11, but you can always change to a local account. Here is a guide for Windows 11 users on; how to switch from a Microsoft account to a local account. On the Windows 11 operating system, there are two login options available; a local account and a Microsoft account. Both have pros and cons.
When you use a local account, your files and settings get saved locally on your computer. If you delete any data or files from your Windows PC, you can not recover it from a local account. So, if you want to sync your Windows 11 devices’ data, files, and settings, you can log in with a Microsoft account. However, if you decide to switch to a local account, then follow the guide.
How to Switch to a Local Account on Windows 11
If you want to switch from a Microsoft account to a local account, Windows 11 makes it an easy task from the Settings app.
Here are the steps to switch from a Microsoft account to a local account.
1. Open Settings.
2. The settings window will appear. To change your login account on Windows 11, go to the Account tab and select Your Info.
3. Under the Account settings section, click the Sign in a local account instead option.
4. Now, a pop-up box appears, asking whether you’re sure you want to switch to a local account. To proceed, click Next and enter your current password.
5. Enter your local account info like; username and create a password. Also, enter some password hints. If you don’t want to set a password for your local account, then leave the password option blank.
6. Then click on Next to continue.
7. Finally, click on Sign out and finish to switch your account to a local account.
How to Switch from a Local Account to Microsoft Account on Windows 11
If you are using a local account on Windows 11 and now you want to switch it to a Microsoft account to access all the cloud services and features that Microsoft offers. Then follow the guide.
When you link your Microsoft account to your PC, all your settings, apps, and files will sync across devices. Also, you can use Microsoft services like Find My Device and One Drive to sync your files. Additionally, You will get all the online purchases you have made with your Microsoft account.
Follow these steps to link a Windows 11 local account with a Microsoft account:
1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. The settings window will appear. To change your login account on Windows 11, go to the Account tab and select Your Info.
3. Under the Account settings section, click Sign in a Microsoft account instead option to sign in with a Microsoft Account.
4. It will open the Microsoft account window. Here enter your Microsoft email address and password and click on Next.
Note
If you don’t have a Microsoft account, you can create one by clicking on Create One! You don’t need to create a new email address; you can use your old email from any email service (Gmail, Yahoo mail, outlook, and more) to register your account.
5. Once you have sign-in, enter your current Windows password and click the Next button.
6. If the account doesn’t have a password, leave the option blank, and click the Next button to continue.
7. If you get an option to enter a PIN. You need to create a new PIN to sign in to Windows 11.
8. Now, if you get a warning that says: Verify your identity to sync password across your device.
9. Click on the Verify to continue.
10. Select the option to verify the account. Now, confirm the email address to verify the account. You will receive a verification code on your email account; enter it and click on Verify.
Conclusion
Once you complete the steps, the Microsoft account will switch to a local account on Windows 11. Also, there is always an option to switch back to a Microsoft account. Alternatively, you can create another local administrator account and transfer your files to the new user account instead of disconnecting from the Microsoft account services.
That’s it; this is how you can switch to a local account on Windows 11. However, if you have any questions, please feel free to ask in the comments section. We are always there to assist you.