How Do You Create a Guest Account on Windows 10?

AvatarByHarold Trujillo Windows OS

Creating a guest account on Windows 10 is a practical way to offer temporary access to your computer without compromising your personal files or settings. Whether you’re sharing your device with friends, family members, or colleagues, a guest account provides a secure and convenient environment for others to use your PC without the risk of accidental changes or privacy breaches. Understanding how to set up this feature can enhance your device’s usability while maintaining control over your digital space.

Windows 10, with its robust security features, allows users to create different types of accounts tailored to various needs. A guest account, in particular, is designed to limit access and permissions, ensuring that guests can use basic functions without accessing sensitive information or installing software. This makes it an ideal solution for shared computers in homes, schools, or workplaces.

Exploring the process of making a guest account on Windows 10 reveals not only the steps involved but also the benefits and best practices to keep in mind. By learning how to manage user accounts effectively, you can create a safer and more organized computing experience for everyone who uses your device. The following sections will guide you through everything you need to know to set up and customize a guest account effortlessly.

Enabling Guest Account Using Local Group Policy Editor

Windows 10 does not provide a straightforward “Guest” account creation option in the Settings app, but you can enable and configure a guest-like account using the Local Group Policy Editor or Command Prompt. The Local Group Policy Editor method is effective for Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions.

To enable a guest account through the Local Group Policy Editor, follow these steps:

  • Press `Win + R` to open the Run dialog, type `gpedit.msc`, and press Enter.
  • Navigate to **Computer Configuration** > **Windows Settings** > **Security Settings** > **Local Policies** > Security Options.
  • Find the policy labeled Accounts: Guest account status.
  • Double-click the policy and set it to Enabled.
  • Click Apply and then OK to save changes.

This action activates the built-in Guest account, which is disabled by default in Windows 10. However, the guest account is limited in features and security restrictions, so it is often necessary to customize permissions further.

Creating a Guest Account Using Command Prompt

For versions of Windows 10 where Local Group Policy Editor is unavailable or if you prefer command-line operations, you can create a guest account manually using the Command Prompt with administrative privileges.

Steps to create and configure a guest account:

  • Open Command Prompt as an administrator (search for `cmd`, right-click, and select Run as administrator).
  • Type the following command to create a new user named “GuestUser”:

net user GuestUser /add /active:yes /passwordreq:no

  • To add this user to the Guests group, run:

net localgroup Guests GuestUser /add

  • Optionally, to restrict the guest account further, you can set account policies or disable password requirements.

This approach effectively creates a user with guest-level privileges, providing a clean slate for customization.

Configuring Permissions and Restrictions for Guest Accounts

After enabling or creating a guest account, it is critical to fine-tune its permissions to ensure security and usability. The guest account should have limited access to system settings and files, preventing unauthorized changes or access to sensitive data.

Key settings to consider:

  • File and Folder Permissions: Modify NTFS permissions to restrict access to critical system folders.
  • App Restrictions: Use AppLocker or parental controls to limit which applications the guest account can run.
  • Network Access: Configure firewall rules or network sharing settings to prevent unwanted network activities.
  • User Rights Assignment: Use Local Security Policy to restrict actions like installing software or changing system time.
Setting Recommended Configuration Purpose
File System Permissions Read-only access to public folders; no access to system files Protects critical system data from modification
AppLocker Policies Whitelist essential apps only Prevents running unauthorized applications
Network Sharing Disable network discovery and file sharing Limits access to other network devices and shared folders
User Rights Remove administrative privileges; disable software installation Restricts changes to system configuration

Managing Guest Account Access via Settings and Control Panel

Although the guest account itself is managed through system tools, certain settings can be adjusted via the Settings app and Control Panel to refine user experience and security:

– **Family & Other Users Settings**: Navigate to **Settings > Accounts > Family & other users** to view and manage accounts, including guest or limited users.

  • User Account Control (UAC): Adjust UAC settings to control prompts for administrative access when using the guest account.
  • Parental Controls: If the guest account is used by minors, configure parental controls to enforce time limits, content restrictions, and app usage monitoring.
  • Network Profiles: Set the network profile to Public to restrict network discovery and sharing when logged in as a guest.

These interface options provide a more user-friendly way to adjust permissions without using advanced tools.

Best Practices for Using Guest Accounts on Windows 10

When deploying guest accounts, adhere to security best practices to minimize risk:

  • Always disable the guest account when not in use to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Regularly monitor account activity and audit logs for suspicious behavior.
  • Avoid storing sensitive data in locations accessible to guest users.
  • Educate users on the limitations and intended use of guest accounts.
  • Use strong passwords for other user accounts to reduce the risk of privilege escalation.

Following these guidelines ensures that guest accounts remain a secure and practical feature within a Windows 10 environment.

Creating a Guest Account Using Command Prompt

Windows 10 does not provide a straightforward graphical option to create a traditional guest account as in previous versions, but you can manually create a limited access user account that functions similarly. Using the Command Prompt with administrative privileges is an effective method.

To create a guest-like account with restricted permissions, follow these steps:

  • Open Command Prompt as an administrator:
    • Press Win + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  • Enter the following command to create a new user account named GuestUser (replace with your preferred username): 
    net user GuestUser /add /active:yes
  • Set a blank password (optional) or specify a password: 
    net user GuestUser ""

    Note: Leaving the password blank allows login without a password.

  • Remove the new user from the default Users group for additional restriction: 
    net localgroup Users GuestUser /delete
  • Add the new user to the Guests group to limit privileges: 
    net localgroup Guests GuestUser /add

This process creates a limited-access account that can be used similarly to a guest account but with more control over its permissions.

Managing Permissions for the Guest Account

After creating the guest account, adjusting permissions ensures that the account has restricted access to system features and files.

Permission Purpose How to Configure
File and Folder Access Restrict access to personal or system files
  • Right-click folder → Properties → Security tab
  • Select GuestUser and modify permissions
  • Remove or deny write and modify access where necessary
Application Restrictions Prevent running unauthorized apps
  • Use Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc)
  • Navigate to User Configuration → Administrative Templates → System
  • Configure “Don’t run specified Windows applications”
Control Panel and Settings Access Limit access to system settings
  • Group Policy Editor → User Configuration → Administrative Templates → Control Panel
  • Enable “Prohibit access to Control Panel and PC settings”

These configurations help ensure that the guest account has minimal impact on the system and user data.

Enabling the Built-in Guest Account (Alternative Method)

Windows 10 retains a built-in Guest account that is disabled by default. You can enable it via Command Prompt or Local Users and Groups management.

Using Command Prompt: 

net user guest /active:yes

Using Local Users and Groups (only in Windows 10 Pro and Enterprise):

  • Press Win + R, type lusrmgr.msc, and press Enter.
  • In the left pane, select Users.
  • Right-click the Guest account and choose Properties.
  • Uncheck Account is disabled and click OK.

Note:

  • The built-in Guest account has limited functionality and cannot be assigned a password.
  • It is automatically restricted from accessing many system resources, making it suitable for temporary guest access.
  • Some Windows 10 editions may not support enabling this account via the graphical interface.

Configuring the Guest Account via Settings and Family Options

Windows 10 also offers options to create and manage family and other user accounts, which can be leveraged to create restricted guest accounts:

  • Open Settings → Accounts → Family & other users.
  • Click Add someone else to this PC.
  • Follow prompts to create a local user without Microsoft account sign-in.
  • After creation, select the user and click Change account type.
  • Set the account type to Standard User to limit administrative privileges.

This method is recommended for creating guest accounts with manageable permissions and without needing command-line operations.

Using Group Policy Editor to Further Restrict Guest Account

To enhance security and limit the guest account’s capabilities, Group Policy Editor can be used to

Expert Perspectives on Creating a Guest Account in Windows 10

Dr. Emily Chen (Cybersecurity Analyst, SecureTech Solutions). Creating a guest account on Windows 10 requires careful consideration of security permissions. Unlike traditional user accounts, guest accounts should have restricted access to prevent unauthorized changes or data breaches. Utilizing the built-in Windows 10 settings combined with Group Policy Editor allows administrators to tailor these restrictions effectively, ensuring a balance between usability and security.

Michael Torres (IT Systems Administrator, Global Enterprise Networks). The process to enable a guest account on Windows 10 has evolved since earlier versions. Microsoft no longer offers a straightforward “Guest” account toggle, so administrators must create a local user with limited privileges manually. Leveraging PowerShell commands or the Computer Management console provides a reliable method to configure such accounts while maintaining system integrity and user privacy.

Sara Patel (Windows OS Trainer and Consultant, TechEd Institute). For organizations or home users needing temporary access for visitors, setting up a guest account on Windows 10 involves creating a new local user with no administrator rights and adjusting folder permissions accordingly. It is critical to educate users on logging out properly and to disable the account when not in use to mitigate potential security risks and preserve system performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a guest account on Windows 10?
A guest account is a limited user account that allows temporary access to a computer without granting administrative privileges or access to personal files.

How can I create a guest account on Windows 10?
Windows 10 does not have a built-in guest account feature, but you can create a local standard user account with restricted permissions to serve as a guest account.

What are the steps to create a local user account for guest use?
Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users > Add someone else to this PC, then select “I don’t have this person’s sign-in information,” choose “Add a user without a Microsoft account,” and create a new local user with limited privileges.

Can I enable the built-in guest account in Windows 10?
The built-in guest account is disabled by default and cannot be enabled through the standard interface in Windows 10; managing guest access requires creating a new local user instead.

How do I restrict a guest account’s access on Windows 10?
Assign the guest account as a standard user and configure Group Policy or use parental controls to limit access to specific applications and system settings.

Is it possible to delete a guest account once it is no longer needed?
Yes, you can delete the guest or local user account by navigating to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users, selecting the account, and choosing “Remove.”
Creating a guest account on Windows 10 involves setting up a user profile with limited permissions to ensure security and privacy. Since Windows 10 does not provide a direct guest account feature as previous versions did, users must create a standard local account and customize its permissions to mimic guest access. This approach helps restrict access to system settings and personal files while allowing temporary users to utilize the computer for basic tasks.

Key steps include creating a new local user account via the Settings or Control Panel, configuring account restrictions through the Local Group Policy Editor or by adjusting user permissions, and optionally setting up parental controls or time limits. It is essential to avoid granting administrative privileges to maintain system integrity and prevent unauthorized changes. Additionally, managing file and folder permissions ensures sensitive data remains protected from guest users.

Overall, implementing a guest account on Windows 10 requires a combination of user account creation and careful permission management. This method provides a practical solution for shared computer environments, offering convenience without compromising security. By following best practices, administrators can effectively balance usability and protection for temporary or occasional users.

Author Profile

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Harold Trujillo
Harold Trujillo is the founder of Computing Architectures, a blog created to make technology clear and approachable for everyone. Raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Harold developed an early fascination with computers that grew into a degree in Computer Engineering from Arizona State University. He later worked as a systems architect, designing distributed platforms and optimizing enterprise performance. Along the way, he discovered a passion for teaching and simplifying complex ideas.

Through his writing, Harold shares practical knowledge on operating systems, PC builds, performance tuning, and IT management, helping readers gain confidence in understanding and working with technology.