No Microsoft Account Needed: How to Set Up Windows With a Local Account

You’re setting up a new Windows computer at home and would like to use a local account instead of a Microsoft account. But you don’t see an obvious option for a local account. Time to admit defeat? (Or, if you're Elon Musk, tweet your displeasure to 174 million followers and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella?) No. Depending on your edition of Windows, there are a couple of ways to go local.

First, why choose a local account over a Microsoft account? A Microsoft account does offer certain advantages, especially if you own more than one Windows computer. You’re able to sync your Windows theme and other settings across your different PCs. If you want to call on OneDrive to back up and sync your files, a Microsoft account is required. Plus, you can use the same account to sign into Windows, Microsoft 365, the Microsoft Store, and Xbox Live.

However, a Microsoft account also comes with certain privacy and security pitfalls. Microsoft uses it to monitor your activities inside and outside Windows for the purpose of sending you targeted ads. To avoid this scrutiny, a local account is the better bet. So how do you choose the local route? Let’s look at your options for each edition of Windows 10 and 11.

How to Use a Local Account With Windows 10 Home

If you have the Windows 10 Home edition, choosing a local account is difficult. However, you can trick the computer into using one by disconnecting the PC from the internet. After you start the setup process, turn off the Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection.

You should eventually see a screen that says you need to connect to the internet. Click the I don't have internet link in the bottom corner of this screen.

Microsoft will try to convince you to connect to the internet (and use a Microsoft account). Click the Continue with limited setup option to set up your local account. You should then be able to create a username and password for your local account.

You must also choose three security questions and answers to gain access to your local account should you ever forget the password.

Follow the remaining setup screens until you’re finished. After the process is complete, you’re placed at the Windows 10 desktop. You can now turn your internet connection back on and then sign into Windows using your local account.

How to Use a Local Account With Windows 10 Pro

If you have Windows 10 Pro, setting up a local account is easier. During the setup process, you’ll see a screen that offers two options: Set up for personal use and Set up for an organization. Assuming this is a personal computer and not a work PC, choose Set up for personal use.

The next screen asks you to type the email address or phone number for your Microsoft account. Instead, click the Offline account link (this is Microsoft-speak for a local account).

Microsoft tries its best to steer you away from a local account. Forge ahead by selecting the Limited experience option.

You’ll then be asked to enter the username and password you wish to use for your local account. The next screen prompts you to choose three security questions and answers to gain access to your local account should you ever forget the password.

Windows will then proceed through the setup process. Once you’ve completed that, you’ll be deposited at the Windows desktop. You can now use your local account to sign into Windows.

How to Switch to a Local Account in Windows 10

If you’ve already set up Windows with a Microsoft account, there is a way to switch to a local account. In Windows 10 Home or Pro, go to Settings > Accounts and click the link for Sign in with a local account instead.

Windows asks if you’re sure you want to sign in with a local account. Click Next and enter the PIN or password you use to sign into Windows.

You can then create a username and password for the local account. Confirm the password, type a password hint, and click Next.

Select Sign out and finish to create your local account. You’re then placed at the login screen where you can sign in with your new local account.

How to Use a Local Account With Windows 11

Setting up a local account in Windows 11 is trickier. Microsoft initially offered a way to choose an offline account with Windows 11 Pro, but that option has since been removed. Windows 11 Home has never given you the ability to use a local account. Still, there is a workaround for both editions of Windows.

During the setup process for Windows 11 Pro, you’ll see a screen that asks how you’d like to set up the device. Choose the option for Set up for personal use and click Next. If you’re setting up Windows 11 Home, this screen doesn’t appear.

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In Windows 11 Pro or Home, the next screen for Unlock Your Microsoft Experience explains the benefits of a Microsoft account. Ignore Microsoft’s hype and click the Sign in button.

When asked to add your Microsoft account, type the following dummy account name: [email protected]. Click Next, add a password (it can be anything you wish), and click Next again.

You’ll be told that something went wrong. Click Next again.

You’re then placed at the next screen where you can set up a local account. To proceed, enter the name and password you wish to use for the account.

Set up three security questions and answers for the account.

Continue through the setup process until you get to the Windows 11 desktop. From then on, you can log in with your local account.

How to Switch to a Local Account in Windows 11

If you're using Windows 11 with a Microsoft account and want to go local, head to Settings > Accounts > Your Info and click the link for Sign in with a local account instead.

Click Next when asked if you’re sure you want to a local account. Enter your PIN or password to confirm the decision.

Create your username, password, and password hint. Click Next and select the Sign out and finish button. From the Windows login screen, type the password for your new local account and sign in.