How to Make Another Account on Windows 10

Creating an additional user account on Windows 10 lets you set up separate profiles for family members, work, or guests, each with its own files, apps, and settings. You can do this with a Microsoft account (for online sync) or a local account (offline only). This guide walks you through both methods, plus common mistakes and fixes.

What You’ll Need

Access to an existing Windows 10 administrator account (you’ll need its password).
If you plan to use a Microsoft account, have the email address and password ready.
For a local account, decide on a username and password (optional).

Step-by-Step

Open Settings: Click the Start button (Windows icon) in the bottom-left corner, then click the gear icon (Settings). Alternatively, press Windows + I on your keyboard.
Go to Accounts: In the Settings window, click on Accounts (it has a person-shaped icon).
Select Family & other users: In the left sidebar, click Family & other users.
Add a new user: Under the “Other users” section, click Add someone else to this PC.
Choose account type:
- Microsoft account: Enter the person’s email address and click Next, then Finish. If they don’t have one, click “Create one” to set up a new Microsoft account.
- Local account: Click “I don’t have this person’s sign-in information”, then “Add a user without a Microsoft account”. Enter a username, password (optional), and a password hint (if you set a password). Click Next and then Finish.
Set account type (optional): After the account appears in the list, click on it and select Change account type. Choose “Administrator” if you want the user to have full control, or keep “Standard User” for normal use. Click OK.
Sign out and test: To test the new account, sign out of your current account (Start > your profile icon > Sign out) and then select the new account from the lock screen to sign in.

Common Mistakes

Forgetting to set as administrator: If you need admin rights (e.g., installing software), you must change the account type after creation.
Using a Microsoft account when you wanted local: If you enter an email, Windows assumes you want a Microsoft account. To get a local account, you must click the “I don’t have this person’s sign-in information” link.
Not having admin rights: Only an administrator can create new accounts. If you’re on a standard account, you’ll be prompted for an admin password.
Overlooking the “Family” section: Adding a family member via the “Family” section requires you to invite them via email, and they must accept. For a quick local account, use “Other users” instead.

Tips

Use a local account for privacy: Local accounts don’t sync data to the cloud and don’t require an internet connection to sign in.
Set a strong password: Even for a local account, a password helps protect files from other users on the same PC.
Use “Standard User” for daily use: It’s safer for everyday tasks, as it limits system changes.
Name accounts clearly: Use names that are easy to identify, especially if you have multiple users.
Check storage: Each account gets its own folder in C:\Users, so ensure your drive has enough space.

Troubleshooting

“Add someone else to this PC” is grayed out: This happens when you’re not signed in as an administrator. Sign out and sign in with an admin account, or ask the admin to do it for you.
New account won’t sign in: If you used a Microsoft account, verify the email and password are correct. For local accounts, check the username and password (remember it’s case-sensitive).
Account creation fails with an error: Restart your PC and try again. If the issue persists, run the Windows Update troubleshooter or check for system updates.
Can’t switch to the new account: Make sure you sign out completely (not just lock) and then select the account from the bottom-left corner of the lock screen.
Account missing after restart: If you created a local account and it disappeared, it may have been created as a temporary profile. Try creating it again, ensuring you click “Finish” and wait for the account to appear in the list before signing out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I create an account without a Microsoft account?

Yes. When adding a user, click “I don’t have this person’s sign-in information” and then “Add a user without a Microsoft account”. This creates a local account with a username and optional password.

How many accounts can I have on Windows 10?

There’s no hard limit, but each account takes up disk space. In practice, you can create as many as you need, but it’s wise to keep it to a few to avoid clutter.

Can I change a local account to a Microsoft account later?

Yes. In Settings > Accounts > Your info, click “Sign in with a Microsoft account instead” and follow the prompts. You’ll need to enter the email and password.

What’s the difference between a standard user and an administrator?

An administrator can change system settings, install software, and manage other accounts. A standard user can only use apps and change their own settings. Standard is safer for everyday use.

Does creating a new account affect my current files?

No. Each account has its own user folder (C:\Users\[username]) and separate app data. Your current files remain untouched.

Can I delete an account I created?

Yes, but you must be signed in as an administrator. Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users, click the account, and select “Remove”. You can choose to keep or delete the account’s files.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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