Creating a guest user account on Windows 11 provides a secure and limited environment for temporary users. It allows others to use the computer without being able to change system settings, install software, or access the personal files of the primary user. Guest User account ensure that they cannot make system-wide changes or access sensitive information. Although Windows 11 does not have a built-in “Guest” account like previous versions, there are several methods to achieve similar functionality. Here are different ways to enable a guest account on Windows 11.
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What Is a Guest Account in Windows?
A guest account in Windows PC is a special type of user account for users who need basic access to a computer without being able to make changes to system settings or access private files. Unlike standard user accounts, a Guest account has restricted privileges it cannot install software, change system configurations, or access other users’ data. This makes it ideal for scenarios where someone needs to browse the internet, check email, or use installed applications for a short period.
In older versions like Windows 7 and 8, the Guest account was built-in and easy to enable. However, starting with Windows 10 and continuing in Windows 11, Microsoft has hidden or deprecated the classic Guest account, favoring more secure, customized local user accounts with limited permissions instead.
Enable Guest Account via Local Users and Groups
If you’re using Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise, you can access the Local Users and Groups console to enable or create a guest account.
- Press Windows + R, type lusrmgr.msc, and press Enter to open Local Users and Groups.
- Click on Users in the left pane. Right-click on Guest > Properties.
- Uncheck Account is disabled, then click Apply > OK.
- Optionally, right-click Guest again > Set Password to change the password.
Tip: You can also create a new user here with limited access by right-clicking Users > New User.
To sign in or switch to the Guest account, click on your user account name on the Start menu (top-left of the Start) and then click on the Guest account to switch the account.
Enable Guest account Using User Account Control
Another easy way to enable a guest-like account is through the User Accounts Control Panel. This method lets you assign a user to the Guests group, giving them restricted access similar to the classic Guest account.
- Press Windows + R, type netplwiz, and hit Enter to open User Accounts.
- Click on Add, Here On Add User Account windows type the User name As My Guest,
- Set the Password for the Account, Reenter the password, and type the password Hint As Shown on Bellow picture.
- Click on Next, now you will see the following User will be Able to sign into this PC Click on Finish.
- Now select my guest Account on the User Account Control window and click Properties.
- Go to the Group Membership tab. Select Other, then choose Guests from the dropdown list.
- Click Apply, then OK to save the changes. This user account is behaving As a Guest Account.
This assigns the user to the Guests group, which limits their permissions more strictly than a standard account—perfect for temporary or low-risk usage.
Use Command Prompt or PowerShell
The original built-in “Guest” account still exists but is hidden and disabled by default. You can enable it using Command Prompt.
- Press Windows + S, search for cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and choose Run as administrator.
- Type the following command and press Enter:
net user guest /active:yes
Enable guest account via Group Policy
Also, you can enable the built-in Guest account via Group Policy, but with some limitations. This method is available only in Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education editions—not in Windows 11 Home, since Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc) is not included there by default.
Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
Click Yes if and when you see the UAC prompt. Now In the Group Policy Editor, navigate to the following policy:
Computer Configuration > Windows Settings > Security Settings > Local Policies > Security Options.
Here On the right side, look for the policy labeled Accounts: Guest account status and double-click on the same to open its properties.
Select the Enabled option and then click the Apply button to turn on the Guest account in Windows 11/10.
Create a Guest Account via Settings
While Windows 11 does not have a dedicated “Guest Account” option, you can create a standard local user account that functions similarly to a guest account.
- Open Settings (Press Windows + I). Go to Accounts > Other users.
- Click Add account under “Other users.” Select I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.
- Click on Add a user without a Microsoft account. Enter a username like GuestUser (avoid using “Guest” as it’s reserved).
- Set a password or leave it blank for easier access. Once created, click on the new account > Change account type > Set it to Standard User.
This account will have limited privileges, making it suitable for temporary use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there a built-in Guest account in Windows 11?
Yes, but it’s disabled and hidden by default. It can be enabled using Command Prompt or Local Users and Groups (Pro or Enterprise only).
Can I enable the Guest account on Windows 11 Home?
Not easily. Windows 11 Home lacks the Local Users and Groups tool. You can use Settings or PowerShell to create a restricted local account instead.
Can a guest account access my files?
No. A properly configured guest or standard user account cannot access other users’ files or system settings.
How do I disable the guest account later?
Use the command net user Guest /active:no or delete a manually created guest account via Settings > Accounts > Other users.
