Unlinking a Microsoft account from Windows 11 isn’t too complicated, but it can be a bit tricky if you’ve never done it before. Here’s the gist: head into Settings, then Accounts, and click on Your Info. From there, you’ll see an option to Sign in with a local account instead. Sometimes it feels like you’ve gotta click a hidden button, ‘cause the wording isn’t always dead obvious.
Once you choose that, Windows will run you through a few prompts to set up a local login. You’ll create your username and password for it. Expect to punch in your current Microsoft password — because, of course, Windows loves to make things a bit more complicated — then set up your new local details. Not sure why it works this way, but on some setups you need to restart after this for the change to stick; on others, it’s all instant. Bit of a head-scratcher, but that’s Windows for ya.
Why bother? Well, switching to a local account can give you more privacy and peace of mind, especially if you’re over data syncing or want to keep everything just on your machine. When you make the switch, some apps like OneDrive or the Microsoft Store might ask you to log in again, but honestly, no big drama. Just a heads-up: some settings linked to your Microsoft account won’t carry over to your local profile, so you might have to redo a few things.
Here’s the quick rundown: go to Settings > Accounts > Your Info, then select Sign in with a local account instead. During the process, you’ll need to verify your Microsoft password, create your local username and password, and follow the rest of the prompts. Fairly straightforward, but remember — because Windows loves to complicate matters — you might need to log out and back in or reboot to see the full effect.
If it’s playing up, try these: make sure you’re running the latest Windows updates, as they fix weird glitches or UI bugs that might stop this from working smoothly. Or, you can try doing it via the Control Panel by searching for “Accounts” and managing your user info there. Sometimes the Settings app acts up, and the Control Panel gets the job done better.
If it’s stubborn as a mule, you can open PowerShell as an admin and run some commands to disconnect your Microsoft account. As an example, you might use net user commands to switch accounts or wipe user profiles — but that’s a bit more advanced and only if you’re comfy with the command line.
Bottom line: it’s a pretty easy process, but not always seamless. Expect some trial and error, maybe a reboot or two. Just keep in mind, switching to a local account might stop some automatic syncing or cloud features from working properly, so be ready to sign into those services again if needed.
Tips for Unlinking Your Microsoft Account from Windows 11
- Have your Microsoft password on hand — you’ll need it midway.
- Back up important files, especially if they’re synced with OneDrive — better safe than sorry.
- You’ll have to log in again for apps like the Microsoft Store or Office.
- Make a solid, memorable password for your local account — Windows can be picky otherwise.
- Note that some settings tied to your MS account might not carry over after the switch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I relink my Microsoft account after unlinking?
Most definitely. Just go back to Settings > Accounts > Your Info and sign back in with your Microsoft details. Easy as.
Will I lose any data when switching to a local account?
Most of your files should stay safe, but apps like OneDrive or Office might need you to sign in again or reconfigure. Always a good idea to back up just in case.
Can I unlink my Microsoft account without switching to a local one?
Nah mate, you need to switch to a local account first — that’s the only proper way to disconnect your MS account.
What happens to my app purchases when I unlink?
They stay tied to your Microsoft account, so expect to sign in when updating or reinstalling from the Store. Not a massive hassle, just an extra step.
Does unlinking mess with my Microsoft services?
Some services like OneDrive or the Store might ask you to sign in separately afterward. Nothing too dodgy, just something to keep in mind.
In a Nutshell
- Go to Settings
- Click on Accounts
- Hit Your Info
- Select Sign in with a local account instead
- Follow the prompts — verify your password, set up username and password, and reboot if needed.
Hopefully, this makes things a bit easier for someone. Sometimes Windows makes even simple stuff more complicated than it needs to be. Good luck, and maybe enjoy a bit more privacy — until the next update throws a spanner in the works again.