Windows 10 User Accounts

A user account in Windows 10 lets you sign in and use your computer. Each account keeps your files, apps, and settings separate from other users. Sharing your computer? You can create multiple accounts for family or friends to keep everything organized.

Types of User Accounts

  • Microsoft Account – Connected online with an email. Access cloud features like OneDrive, Microsoft Store, and sync your settings. Example: Sign in with Outlook or Gmail.
  • Local Account – Exists only on your PC. Simple username and password, no internet connection required.

Tip: Use a Microsoft account for extra features and easier recovery, or a local account for a simple offline login.

Adding a New User Account

With a Microsoft Account

  • Open Settings → Accounts.
  • Click Family & other users.
  • Under “Other users,” click Add someone else to this PC.
  • Enter the person's Microsoft email and click Next.
  • They can now sign in. The first login may take a few minutes.

Adding a Local Account

  • In Settings → Accounts, click Add someone else to this PC.
  • Select The person I want to add doesn’t have an email address.
  • Click Add a user without a Microsoft account.
  • Enter a username and strong password, then click Next.
  • The new user can now sign in with this account.

Signing Out and Switching Users

  • Sign out: Click Start → your account name → Sign out.
  • Switch users: Click Start → account name → choose another user. Your session will stay locked.

Managing User Accounts

The first account is an Administrator account. It can make system changes, install apps, and add/remove users. New accounts are Standard by default.

Changing Account Type

  • Go to Family & other users.
  • Select a user → click Change account type.
  • Choose Administrator or Standard → click OK.

Setting Parental Controls

Keep children safe online using parental controls (Microsoft account required).

  • Go to Family & other users.
  • Click Add a family member → select Add a child.
  • Enter their email → click Next. Child must confirm via email.
  • Click Manage family settings online and set limits for screen time, apps, and websites.

FAQs about Windows 10 User Accounts

Do I need a Microsoft account to use Windows 10?

No. You can use a local account without email. Microsoft accounts offer extra features like cloud storage and syncing.

Can a computer have more than one Administrator?

Yes. You can assign Administrator rights to multiple accounts if needed.

How do I switch back to my account?

Click Start → your account name → select your account and enter the password.

Can I delete a user account?

Yes. Go to Settings → Accounts → Family & other users, select the account, and click Remove. This deletes all files for that user.

Do parental controls work without a Microsoft account?

No. Parental controls require a Microsoft account to track and apply restrictions.

Conclusion

Managing user accounts in Windows 10 is simple but powerful. Create separate accounts for each person to keep files private, control access, and set parental restrictions. Use Administrator accounts carefully, and always use strong passwords to protect your data.

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