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How to switch from a Microsoft account to a local account (and vice versa)


by Ed Bott


When you create a new user account on a PC running Windows 10, the Setup program aggressively steers you toward the option of using a Microsoft account. That's true whether you're setting up a new PC or adding an account to an existing device.


If you'd prefer not to connect your Windows 10 PC to the cloud, the option to use a local account is still there. And if you want to change your account type after that initial setup, you can do that too.


To choose the local account option when you first set up a device or create a new account, skip the option to enter an email address and instead click the small link that reads I don't have this person's sign-in information. Then, on the next page, click the equally small Add a user without a Microsoft account link.


If you're currently signed in with a Microsoft account, you can switch account types by going to Settings > Accounts > Your Info. Click Sign in with a local account instead and then follow the prompts. Don't worry; you won't lose any data.

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