Welcome to Windows 8! Most of us are here, not be choice, but because we bought a new computer and this was the only Windows choice.
Win 8 is great in many respects. However, one of the irritating features for me is that a password is required every time the computer is turned on. My living room is pretty secure and I don’t need a password to protect the beast.
Unfortunately, there are too many variables to discuss here so you may want to do a Google search to learn some of the terminology such as the difference between a “Microsoft Account” and a “Local Account.” One of the differences is that a “Microsoft Account” always (always) requires a password to access the computer. We must create a LOCAL account to eliminate the password at sign-on.
How to create a LOCAL ACCOUNT
Step 1. Go to the START (tile) screen and start typing … that’s right, just start typing and the search box automatically opens for you … and type: your account.
Step 2. When the ACCOUNTS screen opens, click “Your Account.”
Step 3. Look under your name. If it says “Microsoft Account” continue with these directions. If it says “Local Account” you can skip to Step 8. If it does say “Microsoft Account” click, DISCONNECT.
Step 4. On the next screen enter your current password … the one you used when you created the WIN 8 account. Click NEXT.
Step 5. On the SWITCH TO LOCAL ACCOUNT screen, enter a User Name and leave the Password and remaining items blank. (see footnote*) Close this screen.
Step 6. Look at your account on the ACCOUNTS screen. It should say “Local Account” under your name. If desired, you can use this screen to switch between a Microsoft Account and the Local Account.
Step 7. Press the WIN key (flag key on your keyboard) and the letter D at the same time. This returns you to the desktop screen.
How to Remove a Password Requirement from a Local Account
Step 8. Press WIN and the R keys at the same time. The RUN box opens. Type: NETPLWZ. When the next window opens, remove the check mark from the box: “Users must enter a user name ….” Click OK.
* Settings vary. In case you can’t get past this screen with the password blank, do this: Enter the same password you have been using and confirm. Continue with the above process When done with Step 8, press 3 keys on the keyboard at the same time: CTRL ALT DEL. Click “Change a Password.” On the next screen leave the password blank and click the little arrow to the right. Follow this same procedure if you are asked for a password the next time your computer starts.
