Revert Windows 10 Account to Local - Fix Windows Store Hijack
Switching Back to a Local Account in Windows 10
Should you currently be signed into Windows 10 with a Microsoft account – either through deliberate selection or due to system prompts – transitioning back to a local account is a straightforward process, provided you know the correct procedure.
Reverting to a Local Account: A Step-by-Step Guide
The Windows 10 user interface has undergone some modifications, and the installation process now more strongly encourages the use of Microsoft accounts. However, it remains possible to switch to a local user account even on the most recent versions of Windows 10.
The following instructions detail how to revert to a local account. This allows you to manage your user profile independently of a Microsoft account.
It's important to note that this process doesn't delete your files or data. It simply changes how your account is authenticated.
By following these steps, you can regain control over your Windows 10 account and utilize a local login method.
The Appeal of Local Windows Logins
Utilizing a Microsoft account for login offers advantages like file synchronization and browser history access. However, many users prioritize maintaining a distinct separation between their Windows login and any associated online accounts, including Microsoft accounts.
Generally, selecting your preferred account type is straightforward during initial Windows installation or setup after a new PC purchase.
An Unexpected Conversion
A frustrating issue has recently come to light: local user accounts can be automatically converted into Microsoft accounts without explicit user consent. This occurs upon first accessing the Windows Store on a new Windows 10 PC.
Specifically, the local user account is seamlessly linked to the email address used for the Windows Store, effectively transitioning the login method.
This automatic switch can be particularly problematic. If another individual accesses the Windows Store on your computer, your local account could be converted to a Microsoft account using their credentials.
Potential Complications and Security Concerns
This situation creates a significant inconvenience. Reversing the change requires the password of the account used to make the conversion.
Furthermore, if you lock your computer or log out before resolving the issue, access is blocked until the correct password is provided. This represents a peculiar and arguably manipulative tactic to encourage the adoption of Microsoft account logins over local user logins.
Reverting to a Local User Account in Windows
If you wish to switch from a Microsoft account back to a local user account, or if you’ve encountered an issue where the Windows Store unexpectedly linked your account, the reversal process is straightforward with the correct guidance.
Begin by navigating to the Accounts menu on your Windows 10 computer. While accessible through the Control Panel, the quickest method involves typing "accounts" into the Windows 10 start menu search bar and selecting "Change your account picture or profile settings," as illustrated in the image above.
Upon opening the Account Settings menu, you will observe the email address associated with the currently active Microsoft Account, highlighted in the screenshot below.
Locate and click the link labeled "Sign in with a local account instead," which is indicated by the second arrow in the image.
You will be prompted to confirm your account and enter your password. This step is straightforward if it's your own account, but may be more challenging if another user, such as a family member, previously logged into the Windows Store on your device.
Enter a new username and password for your local account. If you are in a similar situation to ours, you may wish to revert to the original username and password you preferred before the issue occurred.
The final screen provides a confirmation of the process and clarifies that this change affects only your local login, not your Microsoft account itself. Click "Sign out and finish." Interestingly, we found that signing out and switching to a local account did not affect our login status within the Windows Store application.
Need Further Assistance?
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