To manage local user accounts and groups on your Windows 11 computer, you need to access the "Local Users and Groups" management tool. This tool is part of the Microsoft Management Console (MMC). While often referred to as "enabling," it's more about accessing the built-in feature, which is typically available on certain Windows editions.
Accessing Local Users and Groups Using MMC
The primary way to access and use the Local Users and Groups snap-in is through the Microsoft Management Console (MMC). This method allows you to add the specific tool you need to a console window.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to open and add the Local Users and Groups snap-in to MMC:
- On the desktop, press WIN + R to open the Run window.
- In the Run window, enter the "mmc" command and press Enter. This opens the Microsoft Management Console.
- In the opened MMC window, click the "File" menu and select "Add/Remove Snap-in".
- In the pop-up window (Add or Remove Snap-ins), under "Available snap-ins", select "Local Users and Groups" and click the "Add button.
- A "Local Users and Groups" dialog box will appear. Keep the default selection "Local computer" unless you intend to manage a remote computer, and click Finish.
- Back in the "Add or Remove Snap-ins" window, click OK.
The "Local Users and Groups (Local)" snap-in will now appear in the central pane of the MMC window. You can expand "Local Users and Groups (Local)" in the console tree (left pane) to view and manage Users and Groups.
| MMC Snap-in Path |
|---|
| File > Add/Remove Snap-in |
| Available snap-ins: Select |
| Local Users and Groups |
Information from the provided reference was used in steps 1-4.
Tip: After adding the snap-in, you can save the console file (File > Save As) to quickly open Local Users and Groups in the future without repeating the steps.
Alternative Method: Direct Command
A quicker way to open the Local Users and Groups tool directly is using the lusrmgr.msc command.
- Press WIN + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type "lusrmgr.msc" in the Open field.
- Press Enter or click OK.
This command directly launches the Local Users and Groups management console.
Important Consideration: Windows Edition
It's crucial to note that the "Local Users and Groups" management tool (lusrmgr.msc) is typically only available on specific editions of Windows 11.
| Windows 11 Edition | Local Users and Groups (lusrmgr.msc) |
|---|---|
| Home | Not Available |
| Pro | Available |
| Enterprise | Available |
| Education | Available |
If you are using Windows 11 Home, this tool is not included. User account management on Home editions is primarily done through the Settings app (Settings > Accounts).
By following these steps, you can access the Local Users and Groups tool to manage accounts and groups on your Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education system.
