What is the difference between local and domain user accounts?

The distinction between local and domain user accounts lies primarily in how they are administered and where they are used. Local accounts are created and managed on individual computers, meaning the authentication and authorization for these accounts occur on the local machine itself. This makes local accounts ideal for standalone computers that do not connect to a larger network or require centralized management.

In contrast, domain accounts are managed by a centralized network server, often referred to as a domain controller. This server handles user authentication across multiple machines within a network, allowing users to access their accounts from any connected computer in the domain. This setup facilitates easier management of user permissions, security policies, and resource access, promoting a more integrated and efficient user experience within an organizational network.

Understanding these key aspects reinforces the utility of domain accounts in larger environments and highlights the limitations of local accounts in terms of resource accessibility and uniform management across multiple devices.