How to change the user account type in Windows 11 step by step

On many occasions, when we configure a computer with Windows 11, we do it quickly and without paying too much attention to certain details. One of them is the user account type we use by default: local account or Microsoft account, and even whether that account has administrator or standard permissions. Changing these settings later isn't always intuitive, but it's entirely possible if you know where to look.

Whether you need switch your local account to a Microsoft account, change a standard user account to an administrator account, or vice versa, this article offers a complete guide with all the most important steps and details to properly manage user accounts in Windows 11. Here you will find everything you need to know, explained clearly and step by step.

Types of accounts in Windows 11

There are several types of user accounts in Windows 11, and understanding their differences is key to managing them properly.

• Local account: It's an account that's tied only to that computer. It doesn't require an internet connection and isn't linked to Microsoft services. Everything you do with this account (settings, files, apps) stays on that device.
• Microsoft account: It's linked to a Microsoft email account (like Outlook, Hotmail, or Skype). With it, you can sync settings, access the cloud, use OneDrive, Xbox, or Microsoft Store, among other services.
• Standard vs. Administrator Accounts: Regardless of the account type (local or Microsoft), each can have standard or administrator permissions. An administrator user can install software, change critical system settings, and manage other accounts. A standard account, on the other hand, has limited access.

How to switch from a local account to a Microsoft account

If you initially set up your computer with a local account but now want to take advantage of the features offered by a Microsoft account, you can do so easily from the Settings app.

1. Open the application Configuration from the Start menu.
2. Go to Accounts > Your information.
3. Click on the option Sign in with a Microsoft account insteadThis option only appears if you are currently using a local account.
4. Enter your Microsoft account details (email and password) and follow the instructions.
5. When you're done, select Next & AFTER Log out and finishWhen you sign back in, you'll be back using your Microsoft account.

How to switch from a Microsoft account to a local account

Otherwise, if you prefer not to have your account connected to the Internet or Microsoft services and want to keep everything local, you can also make the switch without any complications.

1. Opens Configuration > Accounts > Your information.
2. Select option Sign in with a local account instead (This option only appears if you are using a Microsoft account.)
3. Enter your username, password, and a password reminder. Make sure the username isn't already used by another account on the device.
4. Click on Next and then Log out and finish.

How to change the account type: from standard to administrator or vice versa

In addition to the connection type (local or Microsoft), it is also essential to know how to change the account permissions. This is useful, for example, if you need another user to have the ability to install software or make important adjustments to the system. You can also learn

1. Go to the menu of Home and open Configuration.
2. Choose Accounts > Family and other users.
3. In the section Other users, select the account you want to modify and click on Change account type.
4. In the pop-up window, choose between Administrator o Standard user according to what you need.
5. Click on Accept To save the changes.

Important: Only users with administrator permissions can change the account type of other users.

How to switch between users in Windows 11

To switch users without logging out or restarting your computer, Windows 11 offers a very convenient option from the Start menu.

1. Press the button Home on the taskbar.
2. Click on your user account icon (top left of the menu).
3. A list of available users will appear. Select the user you want to switch to.

This method is quick and useful if several people use the same computer.

Additional considerations regarding user accounts

When managing users in Windows 11, there are a few practical details to keep in mind that can save you trouble:

• A Microsoft account allows synchronization: This includes wallpapers, browser preferences, saved passwords, and general settings across multiple devices.
• Local accounts are more secure for home or offline office use: They are recommended for minors or for environments where users do not want to have access to the cloud.
• You cannot delete the only administrator account: There must always be at least one administrator in the system.
• The password is different for each type of account: Local accounts have their own, unlinked password, while Microsoft accounts use the corresponding email password.

Common mistakes when trying to switch accounts and how to fix them

During the process of switching between accounts or changing permissions, certain issues may arise. Here are some quick fixes:

• The option to switch accounts does not appear: Make sure you're using an account with administrator permissions. Only then will you be able to see all the options.
• Problems logging in after changing account type: Try restarting your computer. If the problem persists, use the safe mode from Windows to restore changes.
• Password forgotten: If it's a Microsoft account, you can reset it from the official website. If it's local, you'll have to change it from another administrator account or use the options system recovery.

Cases in which it is advisable to change accounts

You may not have considered changing your account type until now, but there are situations where doing so is quite useful:

• You share a computer with other people: You can assign standard accounts to prevent them from modifying settings.
• Integration with other services: If you use OneDrive, Outlook, or play Xbox games a lot, a Microsoft account will make your life easier.
• Safety: If you don't want someone to have complete control of the system, make sure to keep it with a limited account.

Properly managing user accounts in Windows 11 can seem complicated at first, but with the right steps, it's a fairly simple task. Depending on your needs, switching between local and Microsoft accounts or adjusting administrator permissions can have a significant impact on your daily experience. Understanding the implications of each account type and knowing how to adjust settings to maintain control of your computer is essential.