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Add account to this computer only

Bryan Kelly 596 Reputation points
2026-03-01T00:49:10.21+00:00

I want, Ann, to be able to log on to this computer and use it.  She does not want or need a Microsoft account.  She does not want or need an ann.outlook email account.  Just a user on this computer and nowhere else.  All my searches lead me to the routine that requires creation of those two types of account.

What is the best way to log out so Ann can log in.  Click on the Window icon, then the little circle power looking button.  It has Lock, Sleep, Shutdown, Restart.  It does not have logout.  Is the proper way to use clt-alt-del?

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Accounts, profiles, and login
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  1. EmilyS726 213K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-03-01T01:23:27.91+00:00

    You can create Ann a local user.

    Hold down Win+R keys, type in netplwiz and press enter. Click on Add.

    Then use the option that doesn't require Microsoft account - see screenshot here
    Screenshot 2026-02-24 154741

    Once created, you can decide if you want to give her admin. If you do, double click on her user in netplwiz and go to group membership tab, and make it admin.

    1 person found this answer helpful.

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  1. Q&A Assist
    2026-03-01T00:49:20.05+00:00
    AI generated content. This question contains an answer created with AI from Q&A Assist. Learn more

    To add Ann as a user only on this PC (no Microsoft account, no Outlook email) and let her sign in locally, create a local account and then sign out so she can log in.

    1. Create a local user account for Ann
      1. Open Settings on the Windows 11 PC.
      2. Select Accounts > Other users (or use this shortcut: Other Users).
      3. Under Add other user, select Add account.
      4. In the Microsoft account dialog, choose I don't have this person's sign-in information.
      5. On the next screen, choose Add a user without a Microsoft account.
      6. Enter a username for Ann (for example, Ann) and a password (optional but recommended), then follow the prompts to finish.
      This creates a local account that exists only on this computer and is not tied to a Microsoft account or email.
    2. (Optional) Make Ann an administrator If Ann needs admin rights:
      1. Still in Settings > Accounts > Other users, find Ann’s account.
      2. Select the flyout for Ann’s account and choose Change account type.
      3. Change from Standard user to Administrator, then select OK.
      Note: Limit administrators for security; use a standard account for everyday use when possible.
    3. Sign out so Ann can sign in There are two common ways to sign out:
      • From the Start menu:
        1. Select the Start (Windows) icon.
        2. Select the user/profile icon (near the bottom-left or top-left of the Start menu, depending on layout).
        3. Select Sign out.
      • Or use Ctrl+Alt+Delete:
        1. Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete.
        2. Select Sign out.
      After signing out, the lock screen will show available users. Ann can select her new account and sign in with the password set for her local account.

    References:

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