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Windows Administration

How to Create a Local User Account

Add a separate local Windows account without reusing another person's profile.

Updated September 2, 2026Difficulty: EasyTime: 7 minApplies to: Windows, Windows 10, Windows 11

Follow the steps in order and stop if the screen or target does not match what is described. Use administrator access only when the task requires it.

Use separate accounts

Do not share one person's account or password with another user.

Open Other users

Press Windows + I, select Accounts, then Other users or Family & other users.

Start Add account

Select Add account. Choose the option for someone without sign-in information, then Add a user without a Microsoft account.

Create the account

Enter a unique user name, a strong password, and accurate recovery questions where offered.

Keep standard privileges

Leave the account as Standard User unless it genuinely needs administrator rights.

Test sign-in

Sign out and verify the new account can sign in and access only the intended resources.