Since Windows 10 was designed as a universal OS so your personal preferences and settings can be used on multiple devices, thus the general recommendation is to use your Microsoft account to log into your computer.
Despite the benefits, some people might value their privacy more than the convenience of having their personal settings synced across devices. If you’d rather not use a Microsoft account in Windows 10, you should know the OS does let you log in using a local account.
Before you decide to switch to a local account, you should know some of Windows 10’s features like OneDrive (and other Microsoft apps) sync and buying apps from the Windows Store can only be done using a Microsoft account. If you’re not interested in any of that, follow this short tutorial.
Switch to a local account in Windows 10
Open the Settings panel and navigate to Account -> Your account. Click on the ‘Sign in with a local account instead‘ option.
On the following screen you’ll have to confirm the current Microsoft account by typing in the password. Click on Next to continue.
Setup your local account by adding all necessary information – username, password and a password hint. Â Keep in mind that adding a password is optional – if that’s what you want just type in the username. When you finish adding the information hit Next.
The final step requires you to click the ‘Sign out and finish‘ button. Just don’t forget to save your work before switching to a local account. From then on you’ll sign into Windows with your local account credentials. The operating system will still remember the details of your Microsoft account, but it won’t be accessed without your permission.
