How To Check If You Have A Local Or Microsoft Account In Windows 11

In Windows 11, you can create two types of user accounts: local and Microsoft. A local user account is nothing but a type of user account that does not use a Microsoft account.

While the Windows 11 setup pushes users to use a Microsoft account while setting up their account, there are ways to set up and use Windows 11 with a local account as well.

With a Microsoft account, you can link your Windows 11 activation to your Microsoft account, sync various system settings and data across your devices, back up data to OneDrive, and use many features that require a Microsoft account. On the other hand, a local user account might entice privacy-oriented users.

If you are not sure if you have a local or Microsoft account on your Windows 11 PC, use the methods given below to know the type of your user account.

Method 1 of 4

Check if you have a local or Microsoft account via the Settings app

Step 1: Open the Windows 11 Settings app using search or Windows logo + I keyboard shortcut.

Step 2: The top left of the Settings app shows your user account name. If you see an email address under it, it means that you have a Microsoft account. A username without an email address below it indicates the presence of a local user account.

Method 2 of 4

Know if you have a Microsoft or local account in Windows 11

Step 1: Open the Settings app.

Step 2: On the left pane, click Accounts to open the Accounts page.

Step 3: The top area of the account’s page displays your user account information. An email address indicates that you have a Microsoft account. If not, you have a local user account.

Method 3 of 4

Check if you have a local or Microsoft account in Windows 11

Step 1: Launch the Settings app.

Step 2: Go to Accounts > Your info page.

Step 3: Check if the page displays only your user account name or your user account name with an email address. The presence of an email address means you have a Microsoft account. If not, you are using a local user account.

Method 4 of 4

Check if you have a Microsoft account or a local account through the Start menu in Windows 11

Step 1: Open the Start menu.

Step 2: Click the user name or account picture at the bottom left of the Start menu to see a flyout with user details.

You should see an email address below your name if your account is a Microsoft account.

Our how to migrate your local user account to a Microsoft account in Windows 11 guide might also interest you.