How to Remove an Unknown User Account on Windows?

Published On - January 15, 2026

Emily Harris

It can be unsettling to discover an unknown user account on your Windows system. Whether it’s the result of unauthorized access, leftover accounts from software installations, or a simple configuration error, removing such accounts promptly is vital for system security and organization. This guide walks through the safe and effective methods to locate and remove unfamiliar user profiles from a Windows computer.

TLDR: How to Remove an Unknown User Account on Windows

If you find an unknown user account on your Windows device, begin by verifying whether it’s a legitimate system or software-created account. Use Settings or the Control Panel to remove the account through the Users section. Alternatively, advanced users can remove accounts via Command Prompt or Local Users and Groups tools. Always back up important data before making changes, and scan for malware if anything seems suspicious.

Identifying the Unknown User Account

Before deleting any account, it’s important to determine what type it is. Some accounts may belong to background services or administrative tools, while others may have been left over from previous users or unauthorized logins.

  • Standard user accounts: Typically created by the computer’s primary user for guests or family members.
  • Administrator accounts: Have high-level access to system operations. Removing these should be done cautiously.
  • System accounts: Created by Windows or installed software. These often appear in the user folder but are essential for certain functions.

Start by navigating to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users to view all accounts on the device. Alternatively, run the command net user via Command Prompt to list all existing users.

Ensure the Account is Not Needed

Deleting a needed account may impair system performance or functionality, especially if it’s linked to services, permissions, or file access. Look for these signs before you proceed:

  • Check file ownership: Is this user associated with specific documents or applications?
  • Last login date: If the account hasn’t been used in a long time, it’s more likely safe to remove.
  • Group Membership: Is the account a member of administrative groups?
  • Run antivirus and antimalware scans to check for forced or malicious account creation.

Methods for Removing an Unknown User Account

1. Through Windows Settings

This is the easiest and safest method for home users:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Go to Accounts > Family & other users.
  3. Locate the unknown user under the Other Users section and click Remove.
  4. Select Delete account and data to fully remove the user.

Note: This action deletes the user profile and related files permanently.

2. Using Control Panel

Though slightly outdated, the Control Panel still offers user account management features for Windows:

  1. Open Control Panel.
  2. Navigate to User Accounts > Manage another account.
  3. Select the unwanted user.
  4. Click Delete the account, then choose to either keep or delete the files.

3. Via Command Prompt

This method is best for users who are comfortable with command-line tools:

  1. Search for cmd, right-click, and choose Run as administrator.
  2. Type net user to list all accounts.
  3. Type net user <username> /delete to remove the specific user.

Example: To delete a user named “UnknownUser”, use: net user UnknownUser /delete

4. Using Computer Management (Local Users and Groups)

Windows Pro, Education, and Enterprise editions have access to this powerful tool:

  1. Right-click on This PC and select Manage.
  2. Navigate to System Tools > Local Users and Groups > Users.
  3. Right-click on the unknown account and choose Delete.

Cleaning Up After Deletion

After removing a user account, some files or registry remnants may remain. Here’s how to clean up:

  • Delete user folder: Navigate to C:\Users and manually delete their folder, if present.
  • Registry check (Advanced): Press Win + R, type regedit, and search for leftover profile entries under:
    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\ProfileList.
  • Remove residual permissions: Right-click folders and check the Security tab for traces of the deleted user.

Maintaining Security & Prevention

To prevent unknown accounts from appearing again, take the following precautions:

  • Create strong account passwords and enable Windows Hello or other secure login methods.
  • Enable two-factor authentication for Microsoft accounts linked to the PC.
  • Regularly update antivirus definitions and schedule routine scans.
  • Audit your users monthly using net user or via the Settings menu.
  • Check for Remote Desktop connections and disable unnecessary remote access services.

When to Seek Expert Help

If the unknown user profile cannot be deleted through standard methods, or reappears after deletion, it could indicate malware activity, corrupted system files, or unauthorized access. In such cases:

  • Perform a full system scan using tools like Windows Defender, Malwarebytes, or ESET.
  • Use sfc /scannow and DISM tools to repair corrupted system files.
  • Contact a certified IT professional if you suspect your machine has been compromised.

FAQ

What is an “unknown user” in Windows?

An unknown user refers to a profile not recognized or created by the primary user, often found via the Settings menu or when managing files and permissions.

Can system accounts be deleted?

No, Windows system and service accounts (e.g., SYSTEM, LOCAL SERVICE) should not be deleted as they are essential for proper system functioning.

Why does the unknown user profile keep reappearing?

This could be due to malware, Active Directory policies, or corrupted profile synchronization services.

Can I delete an unknown account if it’s an administrator?

Yes, but you must sign in with another administrator account to do so. Never delete the last administrator profile without setting up a backup.

Will deleting a user account remove their files?

If you select the option to delete user data during the removal process, their files (in their user folder) will be erased permanently. Always back up if unsure.

What is “net user” and how is it useful?

It’s a Command Prompt utility to list and manage user accounts, providing a quick way to view hidden accounts or remove them via terminal commands.

Removing an unknown user from a Windows system is a straightforward process when approached with caution and understanding. By following the steps outlined above, users can maintain a secure, well-organized computing environment.