How to Check User Accounts in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Find User Accounts on Windows 11

Got a Windows 11 machine and want to see who’s logged in or has access? No worries. It might seem a bit fiddly at first, but it’s straightforward enough. Whether you’re checking permissions or just curious about who’s using your device, there are simple ways to get the info.

First Things First: Open the Settings

Kick things off by opening Windows Settings. Click the Start menu icon at the bottom left — the one that looks like a window — or press the Windows key. When the menu pops up, either click the Settings gear icon or press Windows + I to jump straight in. This is the central hub for managing your PC, including user accounts.

Navigating to the Accounts Section

Once in Settings, look for the Accounts section. It holds all the user info, like your profile and other accounts on the device. Think of it as your control centre for user management. You can also quickly access it by typing “Accounts” into the search bar with Windows + S.

Checking Out Family & Other Users

Inside the Accounts menu, click on Family & other users. This shows you everyone with an account on your Windows 11 device—family, friends, or even the odd guest. Keeping an eye on this list is handy, especially if you’re concerned about security. You never know who might have access!

Using Command Prompt for the Techies

If clicking through menus isn’t your style, the Command Prompt is another way in. Open the search bar (magnifying glass icon or press the Windows key), type cmd, then select Command Prompt. For full access, right-click the icon and choose Run as administrator.

Listing All User Accounts via Command Line

In the Command Prompt window, type net user and press Enter. A list of all local accounts and Microsoft accounts on your PC will appear. This is especially handy if there are multiple users or you’re troubleshooting. You’ll see usernames and some profile details—perfect for a quick overview of who’s logged in.

Tips for Managing Your User Accounts

Keeping accounts tidy and secure is key. To avoid getting lost, use shortcuts like Windows + I to jump to Settings quickly. Make sure you’re logged in as an admin if you want to make changes. Check Settings > Accounts > Your info to see what kind of account you’re using.

If you need to add or remove users, sometimes the Control Panel or PowerShell can help. Here are a few handy tricks:

• For more advanced user options, press Win + R, type control userpasswords2, and hit Enter. This opens a more detailed user management window.
• To create a new user with PowerShell, open it with admin rights and run:
  New-LocalUser -Name "NewUsername" -Password (ConvertTo-SecureString "Password123" -AsPlainText -Force)
• To promote an existing user to administrator, use:
  Add-LocalGroupMember -Group "Administrators" -Member "NewUsername"

Regularly reviewing your user list helps catch any unauthorised accounts. Adding notes or labels in user profiles can also make managing multiple users a lot easier, especially if the device is shared around.

Common Questions About User Accounts in Windows 11

How can I tell if I have admin rights?

Go to Settings > Accounts > Your info. If you’re an admin, it’ll say so here. Alternatively, check in Control Panel > User Accounts.

Can I delete a user account?

Yes, provided you’ve got the right permissions. Just head to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users, click on the account you want to remove, and select Remove. For local accounts, you can also use PowerShell or Control Panel.

What if I can’t find the Settings menu?

Easy! Use the search feature — click the magnifying glass or press Windows + S, type “Settings” or “Accounts,” and select it from the list. Sometimes it’s hiding behind a few clicks, but it’s there.

Are there quicker ways to open Command Prompt?

Absolutely. Press Windows + R, type cmd, then press Enter. For admin rights, add Ctrl + Shift + Enter after typing.

How can I change an account type?

Head to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users. Click on the user profile, then choose Change account type. You can switch between Standard and Administrator roles — giving you flexibility in managing access.

Quick Summary

• Open Windows Settings with Windows + I.
• Navigate to the Accounts section.
• Check Family & other users for profiles, or run net user in Command Prompt for a quick snapshot.
• Use control userpasswords2 and PowerShell commands for more detailed management.

Figuring out who’s logged in or has access in Windows 11 isn’t complicated, and it’s essential for keeping your files safe. Whether you prefer clicking through menus or working with commands, knowing how to check user accounts gives you peace of mind. Regularly reviewing your user list keeps away unwanted visitors and helps your device run smoothly. Keep these tips in mind, and managing user accounts will become second nature.