Your Microsoft account is the key to your Windows 10 experience, syncing your settings, granting access to the Microsoft Store, and linking your OneDrive. But sometimes, you might want to step away from that integration. Perhaps you’re setting up a shared family computer, prefer a local account for privacy, or are preparing a device for a new user. Whatever your reason, knowing how to remove a microsoft account from windows 10 is a useful piece of digital housekeeping.
The Simple Steps to Switch to a Local Account
The most common method for removing your Microsoft account involves converting it to a local account right on your machine. This process keeps all your files, apps, and personalization intact but severs the direct link to Microsoft’s cloud services. Before you start, it’s a good idea to know your current Microsoft account password, as you’ll need it to confirm the change.
How to Remove a Microsoft Account from Windows 10
Let’s walk through the process. First, click the Start button and select the Settings gear icon. Navigate to Accounts, and then select Your info. Here, you should see an option that says “Sign in with a local account instead.” Click this link. Windows will ask you to verify your identity by entering your current Microsoft account password. After that, you’ll be prompted to create a new username, password, and password hint for your local account. Once you complete these steps and restart your computer, you’ll be signed into your new local profile.
What to Expect After the Change
After successfully switching, you’ll notice a few differences. You will no longer see your account picture synced from the cloud, and settings like your theme or browser favorites won’t automatically sync across other Windows devices you own. Crucially, you will lose access to services that require a Microsoft account login directly from the operating system, such as syncing to OneDrive or purchasing apps from the Microsoft Store. You can always re-download purchased apps if you sign back into the Store later.
A Final Check for Complete Removal
For a more thorough removal, especially on a PC you’re giving away, it’s wise to check one more place. Go to Settings > Accounts > Email & accounts. Look at the “Accounts used by other apps” section. If your old Microsoft account is listed here, select it and choose Remove. This ensures it’s fully disassociated from the system’s mail and calendar applications.
Switching to a local account gives you more control over your PC’s login process. While you lose some cloud-based conveniences, you gain a self-contained user profile that operates independently. It’s a straightforward procedure that effectively customizes your Windows experience to better suit your needs.
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