When you set up your Windows account, you have the option to link it to your Microsoft account. If you initially skipped this step, perhaps because you didn’t have a Microsoft account or internet connection at the time, or didn’t see the need, use what’s called a local user account.
If you change your mind and no longer want to use a local account on Windows, you can simply sign in to your Microsoft account on your PC. Here’s how you can do it on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Before you sign in to Windows with your Microsoft account…
You can’t sign in to Windows with your Microsoft account if you don’t have an account. If you want to create it, please read our guide on what Windows users should know about Microsoft accounts. It contains the instructions you need to create an account with Microsoft along with some other tips to help you use it better.
You also need to know what you’re getting yourself into when using your Microsoft account with Windows. To that end, you can read our guide on the pros and cons of using a Microsoft account with Windows.
How do I sign in to my Microsoft account on Windows?
Throughout the process, you need to make sure that you have your Windows computer connected to the internet. Windows requires the connection when you sign in to your Microsoft account.
In the settings you will find the option to use your Microsoft account with Windows. To get there, first press victory + me to open the Settings app.
On Windows 10, click accountsand you immediately land on the your information page where you want to be.
You can access them on Windows 11 your information page by clicking accounts in the menu on the left. Then click your information in which Account Settings section on the right.
On the your information page, click Sign in with a Microsoft account instead. You should be able to find the link easily on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
A new window will appear asking for your Microsoft account username. Enter it and then click Next.
Enter your Windows account password and click Register later.
You then have to confirm your identity in two steps. The easiest way is to send a code to your email address by clicking on the appropriate spot E-mail [your email address]. The text between the square brackets (Your e-mail address) receives the email address associated with your Microsoft account.
Look for the code in the inbox of the email address you use with your Microsoft account. Once you’ve retrieved it, go back to the Settings app, enter the code in the text box, and click To verify.
Now enter the password you use to log into your local Windows account and click Next.
When you set up a Windows Hello PIN, you’ll be prompted for one final step. Click on Next in the command prompt. Then enter the PIN in the Windows security dialog box that opens.
Once you enter the PIN, you have completed signing in to your Microsoft account. Windows will not sign you out, which means you can continue using your computer as usual.
Windows is better with your Microsoft account
Microsoft recommends that you use Windows with your Microsoft account. By following the steps above, you can easily sign in to your Microsoft account on your PC.
We also recommend that you link your Microsoft to Windows to unlock more features on your computer. But if at some point you feel like it’s not worth it, you can always go back to using your local account.
