You can add another user to Windows 11 from Settings > Accounts > Other users. The account can use a Microsoft account or, through Microsoft’s currently documented setup path, a local account. A standard account is the safer default unless the person genuinely needs administrator privileges.
How to Add a User in Windows 11
- Open Settings.
- Select Accounts.
- Select Other users.
- Under Add other user, select Add account.
- Enter the person’s Microsoft account information, or use the alternate sign-in options if you need to create an account.
- Follow the prompts to finish.
How to Create a Local User
- From the Add account window, select I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.
- Select Add a user without a Microsoft account.
- Enter the local username and requested sign-in/recovery information.
- Finish creating the account.
Standard User or Administrator?
Microsoft recommends limiting the number of administrators. A standard user can handle normal daily work but has less ability to make system-wide changes. Grant administrator access only when the person needs it and you understand the added security risk.
Microsoft Account vs. Local Account
A Microsoft account connects Windows sign-in with Microsoft services and can support synchronization across devices. A local account is created on the device and does not require internet connectivity to sign in. Microsoft recommends Microsoft accounts, while still documenting a supported local-user creation process.
Separate Accounts Protect Personal Settings
Each user gets a separate profile with personal folders, desktop settings, and account preferences. This is generally better than several people sharing one Windows login.
Summary
Go to Settings > Accounts > Other users and select Add account. Use a Microsoft account or Microsoft’s local-user option, and leave the account as a standard user unless administrator rights are actually necessary.