How to Use Net User Command in Windows 11

Managing user accounts in Windows 11 can be simple and efficient with the right tools. The net user command offers administrators a powerful way to handle user accounts directly from the command line. Whether you’re looking to add new users or modify existing ones, this command-line utility saves time by eliminating the need to navigate through multiple menus.

The net user command functions as a versatile tool for managing user accounts on your system. Accessible through the Command Prompt or Windows PowerShell, it allows for swift account management without the hassle of navigating multiple settings screens.

Key parameters of the net user command

net user: Displays a list of all active user accounts on the system.
username: Shows details for a specific user when used as net user username.
/add: Adds a new user account. Use it like net user username /add.
/delete: Deletes an existing user account with net user username /delete.
password: Sets or changes the password for a user account.
/: Prompts for password entry.
/domain: Executes the command on a domain controller, useful for server administrators.
/help: Provides a list of available commands and their descriptions.
/active:{yes | no}: Activates or deactivates a user account.
/comment:"text": Adds a comment for a user account.
/passwordchg:{yes | no}: Enables or disables a user’s ability to change their own password.

Practical examples

Adding a new user

Open Command Prompt as an administrator. You can do this by searching for cmd in the Start menu, right-clicking on Command Prompt, and selecting Run as administrator.

To add a new user, type net user [username] [password] /add, replacing [username] with the desired username and [password] with the password you want to set. Press Enter to execute the command.

Removing a user

Open Command Prompt as an administrator by searching for cmd in the Start menu, right-clicking, and selecting Run as administrator.

To remove a user, type net user [username] /delete, replacing [username] with the name of the user account you wish to delete. Press Enter to execute the command.

Checking user details

Open Command Prompt as an administrator.

To view all user accounts, type net user and press Enter. This will display a list of all active user accounts on your system.

To get detailed information about a specific user, type net user [username], replacing [username] with the user’s name, and press Enter.

Changing a user’s password

Run Command Prompt as an administrator.

To change a user’s password, type net user [username] [new password], replacing [username] with the user’s name and [new password] with the new password you want to set. Press Enter to apply the change.

Remember that accounts created with the net user command are local accounts. They exist only on your machine and are not linked to any online Microsoft accounts.

Using the net user command empowers administrators to efficiently manage user accounts directly from the command line, streamlining the process and saving valuable time.