What type of accounts do standalone computers in a workgroup typically use?

Standalone computers in a workgroup environment usually utilize local accounts with a local accounts database. This setup means that each computer operates autonomously, managing its own user accounts and credentials independently from a central server or domain controller. Because these machines are not connected to a domain, they rely on the local operating system to authenticate users.

Local accounts are tied to the specific computer and are created and maintained by the local administrator. This contrasts with domain accounts that are stored on a server and can be used across multiple machines, and cloud-based accounts which require an internet connection and typically involve a service provider for authentication. Guest accounts, which have limited privileges for temporary access, do not represent the standard for computers in a workgroup that are primarily managed by specific users with complete control over their local settings.

Understanding the distinction between local accounts and other types of accounts is essential for managing security in decentralized computing environments.