How to Set up and Use Cortana in Windows 10

Microsoft introduced Cortana as a personal digital assistant to the users with Windows 10. Cortana can do several things for you just like a personal assistant. Cortana can set alarms, and reminders for meetings, search the web, and do many other things for you. To use this feature, you need to set up Cortana first. You also need to have a Microsoft account to set up and use Cortana on your Windows 10 PC.

The setup process of Cortana has changed with the latest update of Windows 10. In the recent builds, Cortana launches in a separate window. You can also drag the Cortana window on the desktop to a suitable place which was not possible in earlier builds.

NOTE: Microsoft has ended support for Cortana. You can switch to using Copilot instead of Cortana in the newer versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11.

SEE ALSO: The Best Features of Windows 10 that You Should be Using.

Set up and Use Cortana on Windows 10 Computer

Step 1: Launch Cortana Setup from Start

Go to the Start menu, and you will find Cortana in the Start Menu programs list. You can also search for Cortana on the Start menu. And launch it from search results.

Cortana will launch in a new window. Click on the Sign in button to start Cortana setup using a Microsoft account in Windows 10.

Step 2: Use a Microsoft Account to Set up and Use Cortana

After you click on the Sign in button, you will see options to sign in to Cortana using a Microsoft account or Work/School account. Select the account type and click Continue.

Next, enter your Microsoft account’s credentials to sign in to Cortana. You may get a prompt asking you to sign in using the same Microsoft account as Windows 10. If you wish to use this account in Cortana only, click on Microsoft apps only. Now, you have almost set up Cortana and are almost ready to use it.

SEE ALSO: How to Switch to Local Account in Windows 10?

Step 3: Provide Necessary Permissions and Agree to Terms

After successful sign-in, Windows will ask you to provide the necessary permissions to Cortana. Click on Yes to continue.

Next, you will see a license agreement. Click on the I Agree button to agree to the terms and conditions. After that Cortana will launch. You can now use Cortana on your Windows 10.

SEE ALSO: How to Improve Your Privacy in Windows 10?

Step 4: Launch and Use Cortana in Windows 10

Finally, after you have set up the Cortana, you can continue to use it on Windows 10. You might see some pop-up messages on Cortana about the beta program, simply close them. Now, you can continue to use Cortana by typing your questions in the text box. Alternatively, you can also use your mic to talk to Cortana using your voice.

You can always launch Cortana from the Taskbar in Windows 10. The Cortana icon is placed next to the search box in the Windows 10 taskbar.

SEE ALSO: List of All Windows Keyboard and Mouse Shortcuts.

Talk to Cortana on Windows 10

You have successfully set up Cortana in Windows 10. You can now continue to use it using your keyboard or mic. Just type your question or dictate it to Cortana using your voice. Please note that to use voice controls, you need to have a mic on your PC.

Hope you liked this tutorial. Should you face any problems during the Cortana setup process, leave a comment down below. You may also subscribe to our newsletter and get the latest tutorials directly into your inbox via email.