How To Add Another Account On Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Published on October 22, 2025

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Windows 11 allows multiple users to share a single device, each with their own personalized settings, files, and applications. Adding another account on Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can be beneficial for families, shared workspaces, or anyone wanting to keep their data separate from other users on the same computer. This guide will walk you through the steps, ensuring a smooth and easy experience.

Whether you need to create a separate account for a family member, a colleague, or simply for organizational purposes, Windows 11 makes it easy to manage multiple user profiles. By following the steps outlined below, you can quickly add new accounts and customize them to suit the needs of each user.

How Do I Add Another Account to My Windows 11 PC?

Accessing the Account Settings

Click on the Start button.
Select the Settings app (the gear icon).
In the Settings window, click on Accounts.

Navigating to Family & Other Users

In the Accounts settings, select Family & other users. This section allows you to manage different types of accounts.

Adding a New User Account

Under the “Other users” section, click the Add account button.
A Microsoft account sign-in window will appear.
If the person you’re adding has a Microsoft account, enter their email address or phone number and follow the prompts to add their account.
If the person you’re adding does not have a Microsoft account, click the I don’t have this person’s sign-in information link.
On the next screen, click the Add a user without a Microsoft account link.
Enter a username for the new account.
Create a password for the new account.
Answer the three security questions provided. These are important for password recovery.
Click Next. The new account will now be created.

Changing Account Type (Administrator vs. Standard User)

In the “Family & other users” section, locate the newly created account.
Click on the account.
Click the Change account type button.
In the dropdown menu, select either Administrator or Standard User.
Click OK.

Tips for Managing Multiple Accounts

Regularly Update Passwords: Encourage users to change their passwords periodically to maintain security.
Use Strong Passwords: Advise users to create strong, unique passwords that are difficult to guess.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication: For Microsoft accounts, enable two-factor authentication for an extra layer of security.
Keep Software Updated: Ensure that Windows 11 and all installed applications are up to date to protect against vulnerabilities.

Comparing Account Types

Feature	Administrator Account	Standard User Account
Permissions	Full control over the system	Limited access; cannot make system-wide changes
Software Install	Can install and uninstall software	May require administrator permission to install software
System Settings	Can change system settings	Limited ability to change system settings
Security Risks	Higher risk if compromised	Lower risk if compromised

Understanding the differences between account types is essential for maintaining a secure and efficient multi-user environment. Consider assigning administrator privileges only to trusted users.

Securing Your Windows 11 Experience

Adding multiple accounts to your Windows 11 device is a convenient way to share your computer while maintaining individual privacy and settings. By following the steps above, you can easily create and manage multiple user profiles, ensuring a personalized and secure experience for everyone.

FAQ

How many accounts can I add to Windows 11? There is no specific limit, but performance may be affected with too many accounts.

Can I add a local account on Windows 11? Yes, follow the steps to add a user without a Microsoft account.

How do I switch between accounts on Windows 11? Click the Start button, then click on your user icon and select the account you want to switch to.

What is the difference between a Microsoft account and a local account? A Microsoft account is linked to Microsoft services, while a local account is stored only on the device.

How do I remove an account from Windows 11? Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users, select the account, and click Remove.