Switch Between a Local Account and a Microsoft Account in Windows 11

You want to swap how you sign in to Windows 11 — from a local account to a Microsoft account, or the other way around — without losing your files, apps, or desktop. Here’s exactly how.

Why switch? A Microsoft account syncs settings across devices, backs up your BitLocker key, and lets you reset your password online if you forget it. A local account keeps everything on the one PC and works fully offline. Either way, your data and installed programs stay put — you’re only changing the sign-in identity.

Switch a local account to a Microsoft account

1. Open Settings → Accounts → Your info.
2. Click Sign in with a Microsoft account instead. (This link appears only when you’re currently on a local account.)
3. Enter your Microsoft account email and password, then verify with the code sent to your phone or recovery email.
4. When prompted for your current Windows password, type the local account’s password (leave blank if it had none).
5. Choose to create a PIN when offered — Windows uses it as your everyday sign-in.

That’s it. The account is now tied to your Microsoft account, and your files, apps, and desktop are unchanged.

Switch a Microsoft account back to a local account

1. Open Settings → Accounts → Your info.
2. Click Sign in with a local account instead. (This link appears only when you’re on a Microsoft account.)
3. Confirm your identity (PIN or Microsoft account password).
4. Set a local username, password, and password hint. Don’t skip the password — and consider adding security questions so you can recover it.
5. Click Next, then Sign out and finish.
6. Sign back in with the new local username and password.

What changes — and what doesn’t

• Stays the same: all your files, installed apps, the desktop, and the user profile folder.
• Changes with Microsoft account: settings sync, OneDrive, Microsoft Store purchases, and online password reset become available; your BitLocker recovery key can back up to your account.
• Changes with local account: sign-in works offline, but if you forget the password there’s no online reset — your only recovery is a password reset disk or security questions you set up in advance.

FAQ

Will switching delete my files or programs? No. Switching account type keeps the same profile, so documents, apps, and settings remain exactly as they were.

The “Sign in with a Microsoft account instead” link is missing. You’re probably already on a Microsoft account — you’ll see “Sign in with a local account instead” instead. On a work or school PC, your administrator may have hidden these options.

It says “That Microsoft account doesn’t exist.” You’re entering a work/school address that isn’t a consumer Microsoft account. Create or use a personal Microsoft account, or have IT add the work account through Access work or school.

Should I use a local or Microsoft account? Microsoft recommends a Microsoft account so you can reset your password online and sync settings. A local account is the better fit if the PC is shared, offline, or you want everything kept on the device.

Sources: Microsoft — Change from a local account to a Microsoft account in Windows