How to Switch Microsoft Accounts on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / October 3, 2025

If you use Windows 11, chances are you’ve logged in with a Microsoft account — whether for OneDrive, Outlook, Xbox Game Pass, or just to sync your settings across devices. But what if you need to switch accounts? Maybe you have a personal and a work account, or you bought a second-hand laptop and need to log in with your own credentials. Don’t worry — this guide will walk you through how to switch Microsoft accounts on Windows 11 step by step.

Switching accounts may sound complicated, but it’s actually straightforward once you know where to look. In this guide, we’ll cover everything: adding a new Microsoft account, removing the old one, switching between multiple accounts, and even using a local account instead.

Why Switch Microsoft Accounts on Windows 11?

There are several reasons why you might want to switch accounts on your Windows 11 device:

  • You use different accounts for work and personal use.

  • You bought a new or second-hand laptop and need to sign in with your own account.

  • You want to separate family accounts for privacy and security.

  • You need access to specific Microsoft services tied to a different account (like Xbox Game Pass or Office 365).

  • You’re troubleshooting account sync issues and need a fresh login.

Switching accounts ensures you can keep your digital life organized and secure without mixing everything in one place.

Understanding Microsoft vs. Local Accounts

Before diving into the steps, let’s clarify:

Account Type Features
Microsoft Account Cloud-synced, linked to Outlook, OneDrive, Microsoft Store, Xbox, and Office apps.
Local Account Stored only on your PC, no sync with Microsoft cloud. Better for offline privacy.

👉 Think of a Microsoft account as your passport to Microsoft services, while a local account is more like an offline-only ID.

Before You Switch: Things to Check

Switching accounts is easy, but here are a few things to prepare first:

  • Backup your data: Files stored in OneDrive will remain safe, but documents saved locally might not transfer automatically.

  • Know your login details: Make sure you have the email and password of the new account.

  • Check admin rights: If you’re removing an old account, ensure you’ve created or signed in with another administrator account first.

How to Add a New Microsoft Account in Windows 11

Here’s how to add a new Microsoft account before switching:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

  2. Go to Accounts → Family & other users.

  3. Under Other users, click Add account.

  4. Enter the new Microsoft account email (Outlook, Hotmail, or even a linked Gmail).

  5. Follow the on-screen prompts to finish setup.

Once added, you can sign out of your old account and sign in with the new one.

How to Remove an Existing Microsoft Account

To fully switch, you may want to remove the old account:

  1. Open Settings (Win + I).

  2. Navigate to Accounts → Family & other users.

  3. Select the account you want to remove.

  4. Click Remove → Delete account and data.

⚠️ Warning: This deletes files, settings, and apps tied to that account. Always back up important data first.

How to Switch Microsoft Accounts Without Losing Data

If you’re worried about losing files:

  • Move files to OneDrive or an external drive.

  • Copy your Desktop, Documents, Pictures, and Downloads folders manually.

  • Use Windows Backup to transfer settings.

That way, when you log in with the new account, everything is still accessible.

How to Sign In With a Different Microsoft Account

Here’s how to sign in with a new account on startup:

  1. Press Ctrl + Alt + Del → Switch user.

  2. On the login screen, click Other user.

  3. Enter your new Microsoft account email and password.

Next time you boot up, you can select which account to log in with.

How to Switch Between Multiple Microsoft Accounts Quickly

Already added multiple accounts? Switching is easy:

  • Click Start → Your profile picture.

  • Select the account you want to switch to.

It’s as simple as switching profiles on Netflix — each account keeps its own settings and preferences.

How to Convert Microsoft Account to Local Account

Want to ditch the Microsoft login and go offline? Here’s how:

  1. Open Settings → Accounts → Your info.

  2. Under Account settings, select Sign in with a local account instead.

  3. Follow the prompts to create a local username and password.

How to Switch from Local Account to Microsoft Account

If you started with a local account but want cloud sync:

  1. Open Settings → Accounts → Your info.

  2. Click Sign in with a Microsoft account instead.

  3. Enter your Microsoft email and password.

This enables sync for OneDrive, Office, and Windows settings.

How to Change Microsoft Account in Microsoft Store

Sometimes, you just want to switch accounts in the Microsoft Store without changing your PC login:

  1. Open Microsoft Store.

  2. Click your profile icon (top right).

  3. Select your account → Sign out.

  4. Click Sign in → enter new Microsoft credentials.

How to Switch Microsoft Accounts in OneDrive

If you use multiple OneDrive accounts:

  1. Right-click the OneDrive icon in the taskbar.

  2. Select Settings → Account.

  3. Click Unlink this PC.

  4. Sign in again with a different Microsoft account.

Troubleshooting: Can’t Switch Microsoft Account?

If switching doesn’t work:

  • Check internet connection: Microsoft accounts require online verification.

  • Update Windows 11: Outdated builds may cause login issues.

  • Reset OneDrive or Microsoft Store if account switching fails there.

  • Create a local admin account as a backup in case you get locked out.

Tips for Managing Multiple Accounts in Windows 11

  • Label your accounts (Work, Personal, Gaming) to avoid confusion.

  • Use Windows Hello (fingerprint, PIN, or face unlock) for quick switching.

  • Store important data in cloud services so it’s accessible from all accounts.

  • If you share a device, set up Family accounts with parental controls.

Conclusion

Switching Microsoft accounts on Windows 11 is straightforward once you know the steps. Whether you’re moving from a personal to a work account, switching OneDrive logins, or just cleaning up your PC, you can easily add, remove, or switch accounts without hassle.

Just remember:

  • Always back up important data.

  • Know your login credentials.

  • Use local accounts if you prefer offline privacy.

By following this guide, you’ll have full control over your accounts and keep your Windows 11 experience organized and secure.

FAQs

1. Can I have two Microsoft accounts on the same Windows 11 PC?
Yes. You can add multiple accounts under Settings → Accounts → Family & other users and switch between them.

2. Will switching accounts delete my files?
Not if you back them up. Files linked to OneDrive stay safe, but local files tied to the deleted account may be removed.

3. Do I need internet access to switch Microsoft accounts?
Yes, you need an internet connection for login verification. However, local accounts work offline.

4. Can I switch Microsoft accounts without deleting the old one?
Yes. You can keep multiple accounts and switch between them without deleting any.

5. How do I switch Microsoft accounts on Windows 11 without password?
You can enable Windows Hello (PIN, fingerprint, or face unlock) for faster login, but you still need the account credentials initially.

✅ Key Takeaway: Switching Microsoft accounts in Windows 11 isn’t complicated — it’s just about knowing the right steps. With this guide, you can manage accounts like a pro and keep your personal and work lives separate on the same device.

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