A Microsoft account provides access to Windows 11 features such as OneDrive, Microsoft Store, device synchronization, and automatic backup of settings. While these features are useful, some users prefer using a local account for greater privacy, offline access, or to avoid linking their PC to an online account. Switching to a local account doesn’t require reinstalling Windows and can be completed in just a few minutes.
When you switch from a Microsoft account to a local account, your personal files, installed apps, and Windows settings remain on your computer. However, you’ll need to sign in separately to Microsoft services like OneDrive, Microsoft Store, and Microsoft 365 apps if you want to continue using them.
In this guide, you’ll learn several ways to switch a Microsoft account to a local account in Windows 11.
What Is a Local Account?
A local account is a user account that exists only on your Windows PC. Unlike a Microsoft account, it doesn’t sync settings, passwords, or files across multiple devices. You sign in using a username and password that are stored locally on the computer.
A local account is ideal if you primarily use one PC, prefer offline access, or want more control over your personal information.
Method 1: Switch to a Local Account from the Settings App
The Settings app is the easiest way to change from a Microsoft account to a local account.
Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Go to Accounts > Your info.
Under Account settings, click Sign in with a local account instead.
Click Next.
Verify your identity by entering your current Microsoft account password or PIN.
Enter a username, password, and password hint for your new local account. If you don’t want a password, leave the password fields blank.
Click Next, then select Sign out and finish.
Sign back in using your new local account credentials.
Method 2: Create a New Local Account and Transfer Your Files
If you don’t want to convert your existing account, you can create a separate local account.
Open Settings > Accounts > Other users.
Click Add account.
When prompted for an email address, select I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.
Choose Add a user without a Microsoft account.
Enter a username and optional password.
Click Next to create the account.
After signing in to the new account, you can manually copy your personal files from the previous profile if needed.
Method 3: Use the User Accounts Tool
The classic User Accounts utility allows you to manage local accounts.
Press Windows + R.
Type:
netplwizPress Enter.
The User Accounts window opens, where you can view existing accounts and manage account settings. While this tool doesn’t directly convert a Microsoft account to a local account, it can help you manage and configure local user accounts after you’ve created one.
Method 4: Create a Local Account Using Computer Management
Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise editions include the Computer Management console.
Right-click the Start button and select Computer Management.
Expand Local Users and Groups.
Select Users.
Right-click an empty area and choose New User.
Enter the username, password, and account options.
Click Create.
This method isn’t available in Windows 11 Home.
Method 5: Create a Local Account Using Command Prompt
Advanced users can create a local account using Command Prompt.
Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Run the following command:
net user NewUser Password123 /addReplace NewUser with your preferred username and Password123 with your desired password.
To make the account an administrator, run:
net localgroup Administrators NewUser /addThe account is immediately available for sign-in.
Method 6: Create a Local Account Using PowerShell
PowerShell offers another way to create local user accounts.
Open Windows Terminal (Admin).
Run:
$Password = Read-Host -AsSecureString
New-LocalUser -Name "NewUser" -Password $Password
Add-LocalGroupMember -Group "Administrators" -Member "NewUser"You’ll be prompted to enter a password securely.
This method is commonly used by IT administrators.
Method 7: Remove the Microsoft Account After Switching
Once you’ve successfully switched to a local account and verified that everything works correctly, you can remove the Microsoft account from the device if it’s no longer needed.
Open Settings > Accounts > Email & accounts.
Review any Microsoft accounts listed under accounts used by other apps.
Remove any accounts you no longer wish to use on the device.
Be sure you’ve backed up any OneDrive files before removing the account if they haven’t been synced locally.
Method 8: Disable OneDrive Sync
If your goal is to completely stop Microsoft cloud syncing, you may also want to disable OneDrive.
Open the OneDrive app.
Click the gear icon and select Settings.
Under the Account tab, choose Unlink this PC.
Follow the prompts to disconnect OneDrive from your computer.
This prevents automatic file synchronization while leaving your local files intact.
Method 9: Verify You’re Using a Local Account
After switching, confirm that Windows is using a local account.
Open Settings > Accounts > Your info.
Your account should display Local account beneath your username instead of your Microsoft email address.
This confirms the conversion was successful.
Method 10: Switch Back to a Microsoft Account Later
If you decide you want cloud syncing again, you can reconnect your Microsoft account at any time.
Open Settings > Accounts > Your info.
Click Sign in with a Microsoft account instead.
Enter your Microsoft account credentials and follow the on-screen instructions.
Windows restores access to Microsoft services such as OneDrive, Microsoft Store, and synced settings.
Conclusion
Switching from a Microsoft account to a local account in Windows 11 is a simple process that allows you to use your PC without relying on an internet-connected account. The easiest method is to use the Sign in with a local account instead option in the Settings app, which preserves your files, apps, and most settings while changing the way you sign in.
If you prefer to keep your existing Microsoft account intact, creating a separate local account is another good option. Regardless of the method you choose, Windows makes it easy to switch between account types whenever your needs change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I lose my files when switching to a local account?
No. Your personal files, installed apps, and most Windows settings remain on your computer after switching to a local account.
Can I still use Microsoft Store apps with a local account?
Yes. You can sign in to the Microsoft Store separately without changing your Windows sign-in account.
Will switching to a local account remove OneDrive?
No. OneDrive remains installed, but you’ll need to sign in separately if you want to continue syncing files.
Can I switch back to a Microsoft account later?
Yes. You can reconnect your Microsoft account at any time through Settings > Accounts > Your info by selecting Sign in with a Microsoft account instead.
