account types

Users setting up a Windows PC for the first time are prompted to create a user account, typically as an administrator. Depending on the Windows edition and network configuration, users may have up to four account types, but often only two options are available: a local account or a Microsoft account. In business editions (Pro, Pro for Workstations, Enterprise, Education), users can choose to set up the PC for personal use or for an organization-managed network, requiring assistance from a network administrator for the latter. Windows Home edition users are limited to a local or Microsoft account. The Microsoft account is necessary for accessing various consumer services and offers advantages such as full-disk encryption, simplified activation restoration, settings synchronization, and automatic sign-in to Microsoft services. A local account does not require an internet connection or email and is stored locally on the device, but lacks significant security benefits. Windows 11 Home requires a Microsoft account for initial setup, while Windows 11 Pro has a similar requirement since version 22H2. Users can create a local account after entering a fictitious Microsoft account. In corporate environments, users can join a domain using an Active Directory account created by a domain administrator. Microsoft Entra ID, which does not require a local server, is another account type that allows for settings synchronization across devices and is managed in the Azure cloud. To add additional accounts after setup, users can go to Settings > Accounts > Other users and select "Add account," with new accounts defaulting to Standard users but able to be upgraded to local administrators.