Question on selecting the Microsoft Account vs the alternative choice


  1. fdm2000
    Posts : 55
    Windows 10 Home 64 bit
       New #1

    Question on selecting the Microsoft Account vs the alternative choice


    Doing research on Win 10 Home before starting up my new Dell Win 10 desktop. Apparently one of the first notifications one gets when opening Win 10 for the first time is a decision on whether the user wants to use a Microsoft Account or an alternate (something like their own administrative account). Would like some guidance on which is generally the right option choice for the average pc user.

    Frank
      My Computer
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  3. Brink
    Posts : 69,578
    64-bit Windows 11 Pro for Workstations
       New #2

    Hello Frank,

    It basically to set up a Microsoft account or a local account.

    A local account will be the same as what you had in Windows 7.

    A Microsoft account uses your email address and allows you to use Microsoft services that require you to sign in to with your Microsoft account.


    You can switch your account to either one at anytime afterwards in Windows 10 though.

    Switch to Microsoft Account in Windows 10

    Switch to Local Account in Windows 10
      My Computers
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  4. sygnus21
    Posts : 5,899
    Win 11 Pro (x64) 22H2
       New #3

    Dang Brink, you're quick. I was pretty much going to post the same - links to your tutorial.
      My Computers
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  6. Caledon Ken
    Posts : 30,313
    Windows 11 Pro x64 Version 23H2
       New #4

    If you use a Local account could I recommend you install an alternate Admin account with Administartor authority.

    Then if you have an issue entering your day to day account you can use the alternate without having to go through any processes to activate the built in Administrator.

    I like to think of it as a second set of keys to the car.


    Ken
      My Computer
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