What is a Microsoft account, and do I really need one?
A Microsoft account is a free online account, the same email and password you'd use for Outlook, OneDrive, Xbox or Microsoft 365. You can use Windows with it or with a local account, but a Microsoft account adds backup, settings sync and a saved encryption recovery key.
With a Microsoft account, Windows can back up folders to OneDrive, sync settings to a new PC, save your BitLocker recovery key online, help find a lost laptop, and let you download from the Microsoft Store. Windows 11 setup usually asks for one, and Windows 10 consumer ESU enrollment needs one.
A local account lives only on that one computer and doesn't need the internet to sign in, but you lose those extras and the saved recovery key. Whichever you pick, protect it. Use a strong, unique password and turn on two-step verification for your Microsoft account.
- Check which you have in Settings, then Accounts, then Your info
- If you use a Microsoft account, turn on two-step verification at account.microsoft.com
- Set up a PIN or Windows Hello for quick sign-in
- If you use a local account, keep your own backups and save the recovery key yourself
How secure is your computer overall? Take the 2-minute checkup →
Microsoft Account or Local Account
From the Settings & Accounts course. Learn what each kind of account gives you and how to keep yours secure.