Why you might add a Microsoft Account

A Microsoft Account is different from a local Windows account. When you sign in with a Microsoft Account, Windows syncs your settings, files, and preferences across devices. You get access to OneDrive cloud storage, the Microsoft Store, and services like Outlook email without signing in separately each time.

If you currently use a local account (one that only exists on your PC), you can add a Microsoft Account to the same computer. You do not have to replace your local account — you can keep both and switch between them when you sign in.

Key Takeaways

  • You can add a Microsoft Account to your PC without removing your existing local account.
  • You need an email address and password for a Microsoft Account, or you can create a new one during setup.
  • Adding a Microsoft Account takes about five minutes and requires access to your email to verify your identity.
  • After you add the account, you can choose which account to use each time you sign in.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you begin: a working email address (Gmail, Yahoo, Outlook, or any other email provider works), the password for that email account, and your Windows PC password so you can make changes to your settings.

If you do not have a Microsoft Account yet, you can create one for free using any email address. You do not need to use an Outlook email address — any email works. Have that email address and a password you want to use ready.

How to add a Microsoft Account in Settings

Step 1: Open Settings by pressing the Windows key and typing "Settings", then press Enter. The Settings window opens.

Step 2: Click "Accounts" on the left side of the Settings window. If you do not see it, scroll down the left menu until you find it.

Step 3: Click "Email & accounts" (or "Other users" if you are using Windows 10). A list of your current accounts appears.

Step 4: Click "Add account" or "Add a Microsoft account". A window titled "How will you sign in?" opens.

Step 5: Type your email address in the box. If you already have a Microsoft Account, use that email. If you do not have one yet, type any email address you want to use, then click "Next".

Step 6: Type your password and click "Next". Windows sends a verification code to your email address.

Step 7: Open your email in a web browser or email app. Find the message from Microsoft with the subject line "Microsoft security code". Copy the code from that email.

Step 8: Return to your PC and paste the code into the box that says "Enter code", then click "Next". Windows verifies your email address.

Step 9: A screen appears asking you to set up a PIN. You can skip this by clicking "I'll do this later" or create a PIN now. A PIN is a four-digit number you can use to sign in instead of your full password.

Step 10: Click "Next" and then "Finish". Your Microsoft Account is now added to your PC.

What happens after you add the account

Your new Microsoft Account appears on the Windows sign-in screen. The next time you restart your PC or lock the screen, you will see both your old local account and your new Microsoft Account as options. Click whichever one you want to use.

Your local account still works exactly as before. Adding a Microsoft Account does not change or remove it. You can sign in with either account whenever you want. Windows will start syncing your settings to the cloud if you are signed in with the Microsoft Account, but your local account remains separate.

Troubleshooting: What to do if the code does not arrive

If you do not receive the verification code email within a few minutes, check your spam or junk folder first. Sometimes email providers filter Microsoft's messages by mistake. If it is there, mark it as "not spam" so future emails arrive in your inbox.

If the email is not in spam, wait five minutes and try again. Click "Resend code" on the Windows screen. If you still do not receive it, make sure you typed your email address correctly. Go back and re-enter it, paying close attention to spelling.

If you have tried multiple times and the code still does not arrive, you can create a new Microsoft Account using a different email address instead. Some email providers have temporary blocks on Microsoft's messages — switching to Gmail or another provider often solves this.

Switching between accounts at sign-in

When you see the Windows sign-in screen, your accounts appear as tiles or buttons. Click the one you want to use. If you only see one account, click "Other user" or "Sign-in options" to see all accounts on your PC.

You can set a default account so Windows signs in automatically, but this is optional. To change your default account, go back to Settings > Accounts and look for "Sign-in options". You can also require Windows to ask you which account to use every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to use my Microsoft Account every time I sign in?

No. You can use whichever account you want each time you sign in. Both your local account and your Microsoft Account will remain on your PC, and you choose which one to use at the sign-in screen.

What if I forget my Microsoft Account password?

Go to account.microsoft.com in a web browser and click "Can't access your account". Follow the steps to verify your identity using your phone number or backup email. Microsoft will help you reset your password.

Can I delete my local account after I add a Microsoft Account?

Yes, but you do not have to. You can keep both. If you want to remove your local account later, go to Settings > Accounts > Other users, click your local account, and click "Delete". Windows will ask you to confirm.

Will adding a Microsoft Account change my files or programs?

No. Your files, programs, and settings stay exactly where they are. Adding a Microsoft Account just gives you another way to sign in and lets Windows sync your settings to the cloud if you want it to.

What is the difference between a Microsoft Account and a local account?

A local account only exists on your PC. A Microsoft Account is tied to your email and syncs across devices — if you sign in on another Windows PC with the same Microsoft Account, your settings and files follow you. Both work fine; it depends on what you need.