The Windows 10 setup process now requires you to sign in with a Microsoft account. If you prefer to use a local user account, Microsoft says that you should switch from Microsoft to a local user account afterwards. That is how.
How to switch to a local user account in Windows 10
what you need to know
There is a way to set up Windows 10 without using a Microsoft account. If you disconnect your system from the Internet, you can log in with a local user account. This works whether you’re going through the setup process on a new PC or installing Windows 10 from scratch.
But, if you have already configured it. Windows 10 and created or used an existing Microsoft account, this won’t help much.
This process will keep all your installed files and programs. You will not lose anything. However, Windows 10 will no longer sync your settings between your PCs and use other features linked to your Microsoft account. You can still sign in to some individual apps with a Microsoft account without signing in to your PC with that Microsoft account.
We are not saying that everyone needs to use a local account. The choice is up to you! We provide these instructions because Microsoft makes using a local account much more confusing.
Switch to a local account from a Microsoft account
You’ll do this from the Windows 10 Settings app. To open it, click the Start button and click the “Settings” gear icon on the left or press Windows + i (which is a lowercase “i”).
Click on the “Accounts” icon in the Settings window.
Instead, click “Sign in with a local account”. This option is in the “Your information” tab, which will be selected by default. Your Microsoft account details are displayed here.
Windows 10 will ask you if you’re sure you want to continue, warning you that you’ll lose Microsoft account features, like the ability to sync Windows 10 settings between your PCs. To continue, click “Next”.
How to switch to a local user account in Windows 10
When Windows 10 asks, enter your PIN or password to verify your identity.
You will be prompted to enter a username, password, and password hint for your local user account. The hint will be displayed when someone tries to log in with the wrong password.
Enter the details you want to use and click “Next”.
You’re almost done. Click “Log out and finish”. The next time you log in, you will need to provide your new password.
If you want to use a Microsoft account in the future, go back to the Settings > Accounts > Your info screen. You will be able to link your local account to a Microsoft account by providing a Microsoft account username and password.
