How to Set Up a Guest Account on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 28, 2025

Do you often share your PC with friends, family, or co-workers but don’t want them to access your personal files? That’s exactly where a guest account comes in handy. While Windows 11 doesn’t offer a built-in “Guest Account” option like older versions of Windows, you can still create a secure local account that works the same way.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to set up a guest account on Windows 11 step by step, along with tips for customizing and managing it.

📝 Quick Summary (Key Takeaways)

  • Windows 11 no longer has a default Guest Account, but you can create a restricted local account instead.

  • A guest account lets others use your PC without accessing your personal files or settings.

  • You can create a guest account via Settings, Command Prompt, or Computer Management.

  • Restrict the account’s permissions to keep it secure and limit unwanted changes.

Why Create a Guest Account in Windows 11?

Guest accounts are useful in several scenarios:

  • Family sharing → Let kids or relatives use your PC without messing up your files.

  • Friends visiting → Give them internet access without exposing your work documents.

  • Work environments → Set up temporary access for team members.

  • Public/shared PCs → Prevent strangers from snooping into private data.

👉 Think of it like handing someone the spare keys to your car but locking the glove box and trunk — they can use it, but they won’t get into your personal stuff.

Method 1: Create a Guest Account via Windows Settings

This is the most beginner-friendly option.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

  2. Go to Accounts > Other users.

  3. Click Add account.

  4. Choose I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.

  5. Then select Add a user without a Microsoft account.

  6. Enter a username like Guest (avoid “guest” exactly, as Windows may block it).

  7. Leave the password fields blank (or set a simple one).

  8. Click Next.

✅ Now you have a local account that functions as a guest profile.

Method 2: Create a Guest Account Using Command Prompt

If you prefer a faster, more technical method:

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + S, type cmd, and select Run as administrator.

  2. Type the following commands one by one:

net user GuestUser /add
net user GuestUser *
net localgroup users GuestUser /add

  1. (Optional) To restrict permissions further, avoid adding it to the “Administrators” group.

This creates a GuestUser account with limited privileges.

Method 3: Use Computer Management (Advanced Users)

Another way is through the Local Users and Groups management tool.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R, type lusrmgr.msc, and hit Enter.

  2. In the left panel, click Users.

  3. Right-click → New User.

  4. Name it something like Visitor or GuestUser.

  5. Uncheck User must change password at next logon.

  6. Check User cannot change password and Password never expires.

  7. Click Create.

✅ This gives you more control over account restrictions.

How to Restrict a Guest Account in Windows 11

Just creating the account isn’t enough — you’ll want to limit permissions:

  • Remove admin rights → Ensure the account is only in the Users group.

  • Disable Microsoft Store access (optional) → Use Group Policy Editor (Pro edition only).

  • Restrict folder access → Use File Explorer > Properties > Security tab.

  • Block Control Panel settings (Pro edition) → Configure via Group Policy.

👉 This ensures the guest can browse, surf, and use apps but won’t break anything.

How to Switch to the Guest Account

  1. Click the Start Menu.

  2. Select your profile picture.

  3. Choose Sign out.

  4. From the login screen, select the Guest account.

The guest can now log in with restricted access.

How to Delete a Guest Account in Windows 11

If you no longer need the account:

Steps:

  1. Open Settings > Accounts > Other users.

  2. Find the guest account.

  3. Click Remove.

  4. Confirm deletion.

⚠️ Warning: This deletes all data associated with that account.

Troubleshooting: Guest Account Not Working

  • Can’t create “Guest” username → Windows reserves the word “Guest.” Use “GuestUser” or “Visitor.”

  • Guest has too many permissions → Check account groups and remove it from “Administrators.”

  • Account doesn’t show on login screen → Restart your PC after creation.

Pro Tips for Safer Guest Access

  • Always use a local account, not a Microsoft account, for guests.

  • Keep important files on a separate drive or folder with restricted access.

  • If you share your PC often, consider using assigned access (kiosk mode) for single-app restrictions.

  • Review and delete the guest account when it’s no longer needed.

Conclusion

While Windows 11 doesn’t have a built-in guest account like older versions, you can still set one up using local accounts. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to:

  • Create a secure guest profile via Settings, Command Prompt, or Computer Management.

  • Restrict permissions to keep your data safe.

  • Easily remove the account when you no longer need it.

👉 Setting up a guest account is the simplest way to keep your PC safe while still letting others use it.

FAQs About Guest Accounts in Windows 11

1. Does Windows 11 have a built-in guest account?
No, but you can create a local standard account that functions as a guest account.

2. Can I set up a password for a guest account?
Yes, though many people prefer leaving it blank for easy access.

3. How do I restrict guest access to my personal files?
Store files in your main user profile and restrict permissions via folder security settings.

4. Can I enable kiosk mode instead of a guest account?
Yes, kiosk mode lets you lock down the PC to one app — useful for public or business use.

5. How do I remove a guest account later?
Go to Settings > Accounts > Other users, select the guest account, and choose Remove.

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