Difference Between a Local Account and a Microsoft Account on Windows
Syncing, OneDrive, password recovery, and how to switch between the two.
When setting up Windows, you're asked to sign in with a Microsoft account — but there is also the option to use a local account, though Windows doesn't always show it easily.
| Local account | Microsoft account | |
|---|---|---|
| Sync settings between PCs | No | Yes |
| Built-in OneDrive | No | Yes |
| Recover a forgotten password | Harder | Easy, from another device |
| "Find my device" if lost | No | Yes |
| Requires internet to create the account | No | Yes |
| Your data on Microsoft's servers | Minimal | More (depending on what you enable) |
Which one suits you?
For most people, a Microsoft account is more practical — especially if you use OneDrive, have more than one Windows device, or worry about losing access if you forget your password. A local account makes sense for those who prioritise keeping as much as possible off Microsoft's servers, or simply prefer the simplicity of not linking the PC to any online account.
A little-known fact: Windows 11 makes it quite hard to create a local account during initial setup — it pushes towards the Microsoft account fairly insistently. There is a way to skip this during installation (temporarily disconnecting the internet connection, or with a specific command on that screen), but it isn't as straightforward as in earlier Windows versions.
Can I switch from one to the other afterwards?
Yes, at any time: Settings → Accounts → "Your info" → you'll see the option "Sign in with a local account instead" (if you have a Microsoft account) or "Sign in with a Microsoft account instead" (if you have a local account). The switch doesn't affect your personal files.
Tip: if you switch from a Microsoft account to a local one, you'll lose access to OneDrive and sync between devices — make sure you have copies of anything you need before making the switch.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Windows without any Microsoft account?
Yes, with a local account. Windows 11 makes this harder during initial setup than earlier versions, but it's still possible, and you can switch to a local account afterwards at any time from Settings.
Do I lose my files when switching from a Microsoft account to a local one?
No, your personal files remain intact. What you do lose is OneDrive sync and settings sync between devices, which depend specifically on the Microsoft account.
What happens if I forget a local account's password?
It's harder to recover than with a Microsoft account, which lets you reset it from another device or browser. With a local account, without a security question set up beforehand, recovery is quite a bit more limited.