Set Up a Local (Offline) Account in Windows 11

Windows 11 pushes users toward Microsoft accounts during setup, but a local (offline) account is still fully supported. A local account doesn't require an email address and stores everything only on your PC — nothing syncs to the cloud unless you separately set up OneDrive.

Adding a Local Account to an Existing Windows 11 PC

If Windows 11 is already set up (even with a Microsoft account), you can add a local account this way:

1. Open Settings (Windows + I) and go to Accounts > Other users.
2. Click Add account.
3. When Windows asks for a Microsoft account email, click I don't have this person's sign-in information.
4. On the next screen, click Add a user without a Microsoft account.
5. Enter a username, a password (optional but recommended), and a password hint. Click Next.

The new local account appears in Other users. By default it has standard (non-admin) rights — you can change this by clicking the account and selecting Change account type > Administrator if needed.

Converting Your Own Account to a Local Account

If you're already signed in with a Microsoft account and want to switch to a local account, see our guide on switching account types in Windows 11.

Setting Up Windows 11 Fresh Without a Microsoft Account

During Windows 11 Home setup, Microsoft makes it hard to skip the Microsoft account step, but it's still possible:

• On the sign-in screen, disconnect the PC from Wi-Fi or Ethernet before proceeding. Setup should then offer a local account option.
• Alternatively, on the account sign-in screen type a non-existent email address and click Next — setup may fail gracefully and offer a local account path.

Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise have a clearer Set up for work or school / Set up for personal use option that leads to a local account choice.

What You Miss With a Local Account

• No automatic OneDrive sync.
• No cloud-based password recovery (if you forget your password, options are more limited).
• Some Microsoft Store apps may prompt for a Microsoft account.

Questions about your setup? Ask us.