How to create a local account on Windows

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for creating local accounts on Windows.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Creating a local account on Windows allows users to access their system without needing a Microsoft account. This can be particularly useful for those who prefer offline access or have privacy concerns.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before creating a local account, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •Windows 10 or Windows 11 installed on your device.
  • •Administrator privileges on the computer to create new accounts.
  • •No additional software is required, but having access to the Control Panel or Settings app is necessary.
  • •Backup any important data, as changes to user accounts can affect access to files.

Method 1: Using Settings App

This method is the most straightforward for creating a local account on Windows, especially for users familiar with the Settings app.
  • •Step 1: Press `Windows + I` to open the Settings app.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'Accounts'.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Family & other users' from the left sidebar.
  • •Step 4: Under 'Other users', click on 'Add someone else to this PC'.
  • •Step 5: When prompted to sign in with a Microsoft account, click on 'I don't have this person's sign-in information'.
  • •Step 6: Click on 'Add a user without a Microsoft account'.
  • •Step 7: Enter a username, password, and password hint, then click 'Next'.
  • •Step 8: Verify the account creation by checking the 'Other users' section for the new account.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 has a slightly different interface but follows similar steps.
  • •Step 1: Open Settings by pressing `Windows + I`.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'Accounts'.
  • •Step 3: Select 'Family & other users'.
  • •Step 4: Click 'Add account' under 'Other users'.
  • •Step 5: Choose 'I don't have this person's sign-in information'.
  • •Step 6: Select 'Add a user without a Microsoft account'.
  • •Step 7: Fill in the username, password, and hint, then click 'Next'.
  • •Step 8: Confirm the new account appears under 'Other users'.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users will find the steps similar but with slight variations in the interface.
  • •Step 1: Press `Windows + I` to open Settings.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'Accounts'.
  • •Step 3: Navigate to 'Family & other users'.
  • •Step 4: Click 'Add someone else to this PC'.
  • •Step 5: Choose 'I don't have this person's sign-in information'.
  • •Step 6: Click 'Add a user without a Microsoft account'.
  • •Step 7: Enter the desired username and password, then click 'Next'.
  • •Step 8: Check the 'Other users' section to confirm the account creation.

Method 2: Using Control Panel

This method is useful for users who prefer the traditional Control Panel interface.
  • •Step 1: Press `Windows + R` to open the Run dialog.
  • •Step 2: Type 'control' and press `Enter` to open the Control Panel.
  • •Step 3: Click on 'User Accounts'.
  • •Step 4: Click on 'Manage another account'.
  • •Step 5: Click on 'Add a new user in PC settings'. This will redirect you to the Settings app.
  • •Step 6: Follow the steps in Method 1 from Step 3 onwards to complete the account creation.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while creating a local account, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'You must be connected to the internet to create a new account.' - Solution: Ensure you are not connected to a network or select 'Offline account' when prompted.
  • •Issue: 'The username is already taken.' - Fix: Choose a different username or modify the existing one slightly.
  • •Problem: 'Access Denied' when trying to create an account - Workaround: Ensure you are logged in as an administrator or contact your system administrator.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, consider these tips to streamline account management:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: `Windows + X` - Opens the Quick Link menu for quick access to system tools.
  • •Command line: `net user [username] [password] /add` - Adds a new user account via Command Prompt.
  • •Hidden feature: Use 'Computer Management' to manage user accounts more efficiently by searching for 'Computer Management' in the Start menu.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Creating a local account is straightforward, but understanding the implications of account types can enhance your user experience.