> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://support.storefront.co.za/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://support.storefront.co.za/features/stores/store-settings/customer-accounts-and-sign-up/account-creation.md).

# Account creation

Controls whether shoppers can check out without an account, and therefore whether having a customer account is optional or compulsory on your store.

### Your Options

* **Accounts are disabled** - customers will only be able to check out as guests.
* **Accounts are optional** - customers will be able to check out with a customer account or as a guest.
* **Accounts are required** - customers will only be able to check out if they have a customer account.

### Choosing the Right Option

Requiring an account gives you a customer record, order history and the ability to offer account-only pricing, but it adds a step at checkout and will cost you some first-time orders. Allowing guest checkout removes that friction but leaves you with less information about who bought.

Optional is the usual middle ground, and is what most stores use.

### How to Update Account Creation

1. Select the store you want to update
2. Click on Manage Store Settings underneath Settings
3. Open Customer Accounts & Sign-Up
4. Open the Account creation section
5. Select how you would like your customers to check out
6. Save your changes
7. Add a product to a cart on your storefront and begin checkout to confirm the behaviour

{% hint style="warning" %}
Switching to Accounts are required affects shoppers mid-visit. Anyone with a cart who is not signed in will be asked to register before they can complete their order.
{% endhint %}