How to Create a Guest User Account in Windows 11

Creating a guest user account in Windows 11 allows visitors to use your PC without accessing your personal files or settings. While Windows 11 doesn’t include a dedicated “Guest Account” feature like earlier versions, you can set up a restricted local account to serve the same purpose.

Steps to Create a Guest Account in Windows 11

1. Open the Settings App

• Press Windows + I to open Settings.
• Go to Accounts → Family & other users.

2. Add a New Local User

• Under Other users, click Add account.
• In the Microsoft account setup window, select I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.
• On the next page, choose Add a user without a Microsoft account.

3. Enter Account Details

• Username: Enter a name like “Guest” or “Visitor.” Windows doesn’t allow the name “Guest” exactly, so use a variation like “GuestUser.”
• Password: Leave the password fields blank to make it easier for guests to use, or set a simple password if needed.
• Click Next to create the account.

4. Change Account Type (Optional)

To further restrict the account:

• In the Family & other users section, click the newly created account under Other users.
• Click Change account type.
• From the dropdown menu, select Standard User (default) instead of Administrator.
• Click OK.

Restrict the Guest Account for Security

To make the account more like a traditional guest account, you can restrict access to certain features or folders:

1. Limit File Access:
   • Navigate to the folders you want to protect (e.g., your personal files in C:\Users\[YourUsername]).
   • Right-click the folder, select Properties → Security.
   • Edit permissions to deny access to the guest account.
2. Disable Windows Store and Settings Access:
   • Use Group Policy Editor (if available) to restrict access to apps or settings:
     • Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
     • Navigate to User Configuration → Administrative Templates, then tweak settings for apps and features.
3. Restrict Web Access:
   • Use parental controls under Accounts → Family & other users to limit internet browsing for the guest account.

Alternative Methods

Using Command Prompt (For Advanced Users)

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
   • Press Windows + X, then choose Terminal (Admin).
2. Type the following commands to create a guest account:cmdCopy codenet user GuestUser /add net localgroup guests GuestUser /add net user GuestUser /active:yes Replace GuestUser with your preferred username.

Best Practices for Guest Accounts

• Temporary Accounts: Delete the guest account after use to free up space and enhance security.
• No Admin Access: Never grant admin privileges to a guest account.
• Monitor Usage: Use Windows Defender or third-party security software to monitor guest activity.