How to Switch Windows 10 Login to a Local Account

When you set up your Windows 10 first, it will ask you for your Microsoft account in order to continue the setup, and then this account will be used every time you log in to your PC. If you add another user, Windows 10 also asks for an online account of the new user.

Using a Microsoft account for local machine authentication I find it like a potential invasion of my privacy or I’m just not used to logging in with my email address every time I log in to any computer. So I switched back to a local account and here’s how simple to switch Windows 10 login from the Microsoft account to a local account.

How to Switch Windows 10 Login from Microsoft Account to Local Account

Switching from a Microsoft account to a local account on Windows 10 can give you more control over your data and add a layer of privacy, especially if you don’t want your settings and files synced to Microsoft’s cloud. Here’s a step-by-step guide to switching from a Microsoft account to a local account without losing access to your files and settings.

Make sure to close and save whatever you are doing because it will sign out your account and close all open applications. Now if you’re ready follow these steps.

Step 1: Open Windows Settings

1. Click on the Start Menu in the lower-left corner of your screen.
2. Select the Settings icon (it looks like a gear) from the Start menu. Alternatively, you can press Windows Key + I to open Settings directly.

Step 2: Access the Accounts Section

1. In the Settings window, find and click on Accounts.
2. In the left sidebar, select Your info to view details about your current account.

Step 3: Choose to Switch to a Local Account

1. Under Your info, look for an option that says Sign in with a local account instead.
   • This option appears if you are currently using a Microsoft account. If you don’t see it, double-check that you are signed in with a Microsoft account (an email address should be displayed here).
2. Click Sign in with a local account instead to begin the transition process.

Step 4: Verify Your Identity

A prompt will appear asking you to verify your Microsoft account password. Enter your password and click Next. This step confirms that you are the account owner, ensuring your account’s security.

Step 5: Set Up Your Local Account

You’ll now be asked to create a username and password for the new local account.

• Username: Choose a unique name for your local account.
• Password: Enter a secure password you’ll remember, then confirm it in the next box.
• Password Hint: This can help you remember the password if you forget it, but keep it subtle to maintain security.

Once you’ve filled out these fields, click Next to continue.

Step 6: Finalize the Switch to a Local Account

1. Windows will show a confirmation page. Click Sign out and finish to complete the transition to a local account.
2. You’ll be signed out of your current Microsoft account session and prompted to log in with the new local account credentials you just set up.

Step 7: Log In with Your Local Account

1. Enter the username and password for your new local account to log in.
2. You’ll now have access to your desktop, files, and settings, just as before, but without Microsoft account syncing.

Read: Top Tips for Windows 10 users

Additional Tips and Considerations

Switch Back Anytime: You can switch back to a Microsoft account by going to Settings > Accounts > Your info and selecting Sign in with a Microsoft account instead.

Windows Store and Microsoft Apps: Some Windows features, such as the Microsoft Store and certain Microsoft apps, may prompt you to sign in with a Microsoft account to access specific features. However, you’re free to use most features without being signed in.

Enhanced Privacy: A local account gives you added privacy by keeping your information, browsing history, and settings stored locally rather than syncing them with Microsoft’s servers.

Switching from a Microsoft account to a local account in Windows 10 offers greater privacy and control, while still allowing access to the essential features you need for your daily tasks.

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