Alex Ruben
Create a Local Administrator User Account in Windows 11
This guide will walk you through the process of creating a local user account in Windows 11 and converting it to an administrator account. This is particularly useful if you prefer managing your settings locally without syncing with a Microsoft account. By following these steps, you’ll learn how to set up a local account and elevate its privileges to administrator status.
Step 1: Open Settings
Begin by clicking on the Start menu. Once the menu opens, select Settings.
Step 2: Navigate to Accounts Section
In the Settings window, find and click on Accounts. From the Accounts menu, proceed to Family & other users.
Step 3: Add a New User
Now, locate the section titled Other users. Click on Add other user. You will be prompted with a screen that asks how this new person will sign in.
Step 4: Skip Microsoft Account Setup
Since you want to create a local account, click on I don’t have this person’s sign-in information. This will take you to a new screen. Here, select Add a user without a Microsoft account.
Step 5: Create Account Credentials
Fill in the required information:
- Username: Enter a name for the local account (e.g.,
admin). - Password: Create a password and re-enter it.
- Security Questions: Answer the security questions provided. (You can set placeholder answers for testing, but remember to secure this information).
Once completed, click on Next. Your local account has now been set up.
Step 6: Log In to the New Account
To complete the process, log off from your current account and log in to the new local account you created. Upon first login, Windows will go through a setup process for the new account.
Step 7: Change Account to Administrator
To convert the new user to an administrator, log into the administrator account (if you have one). Go back to Settings, navigate to Accounts, and then Family & other users.
Find your new user account under Other users and click on Account options. Here, select Change account type and switch it from Standard User to Administrator. Click OK to confirm the change.
Step 8: Finalize Setup
Log off from the administrator account and log back in with your newly created administrator account. You should now have full administrative access on your Windows 11 computer.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
Consider the following tips for a smoother experience:
- Be sure to remember your password and answers to security questions as they are essential for account recovery.
- If you encounter issues with permissions, always ensure you are logged into an account with administrative rights.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you have successfully created a local user account and granted it administrative privileges in Windows 11. This process ensures you can customize your settings without the need for a Microsoft account. For further learning, explore additional Windows 11 features and guides.
