Since Windows 11 is phasing out local accounts, how many systems can one account be setup under?

Jason Browell 1 Reputation point
2025-10-23T22:58:02.1033333+00:00

I work for an organization that has about 50-70 laptops and PCs, currently running Windows 10 and 11 (migrating to 11) but with the changes to 11 making it harder, and harder to setup a machine without a Microsoft account, wondering how many systems can be setup using one account?

Windows for business | Windows Client for IT Pros | Devices and deployment | Set up, install, or upgrade
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  1. Marcin Policht 64,685 Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator
    2025-10-23T23:14:31.5166667+00:00

    You can use a single Microsoft account on multiple Windows 10 and 11 devices. However, there are some limitations and considerations:

    1. Device Registration Limitations

    Microsoft allows you to register up to 10 devices to your Microsoft account for downloading Microsoft Store apps and content. If you reach this limit, you may need to remove older devices to add new ones. This limit pertains to the Microsoft Store and content syncing, not to the number of devices you can sign into with your Microsoft account.

    1. Windows Activation Considerations

    While you can sign in with the same Microsoft account on multiple devices, each device requires its own valid Windows license. A single Windows license cannot be shared across multiple devices. If you use a retail license key associated with your Microsoft account, activating Windows on one device may deactivate it on another.

    1. Managing Multiple Devices

    If you plan to use the same Microsoft account across many devices, consider the following:

    • Device Registration: Regularly manage and remove devices from your Microsoft account to stay within the 10-device limit.
    • Windows Activation: Ensure each device has its own valid Windows license to avoid activation issues.
    • Data Syncing: Be aware that syncing settings across devices can lead to shared configurations, which may not be ideal for all scenarios.

    For more detailed information, refer to https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/manage-devices-used-with-your-microsoft-account-d4044995-81db-b24b-757e-1102d148f441 and https://free.blessedness.top/en-us/answers/questions/3996222/can-i-use-one-microsoft-account-on-my-two-device


    If the above response helps answer your question, remember to "Accept Answer" so that others in the community facing similar issues can easily find the solution. Your contribution is highly appreciated.

    hth

    Marcin

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