A Microsoft account has some advantages, but a local account is fine for Windows 11. Microsoft doesn't make it easy to set up a local account on a new PC. There are workarounds, but they depend on ...

Microsoft is removing known workarounds for local account creation in Windows 11 setup (OOBE), effectively making a Microsoft Account (MSA) mandatory for most users. The company cites proper ...

Microsoft is tightening the screws on Windows 11 setup requirements, closing off every remaining workaround that let users skip signing in with a Microsoft account. But a counter-movement inside the ...

Of the many minor to medium-size annoyances that come with a modern Windows 11 installation, the requirement that you sign in with a Microsoft account is one of the most irritating. Sure, all ...

Microsoft is blocking another way to choose a local account in Windows 11. You'd force a local account by disconnecting from the network. The block is currently in place in the latest Windows 11 ...

Microsoft's latest Insider Preview, Build 26220.6772, introduces a significant policy change: removal of known workarounds to skip Microsoft Account setup during Windows 11 installation (OOBE).

TL;DR: Microsoft's big drive to fix Windows 11's various issues this year might include allowing the operating system to be installed locally, without any fuss, doing away with the idea of making a ...

If you already use a local account, the Windows 11 upgrade won't require you to use a Microsoft account. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it ...

Microsoft really doesn’t want you creating a local account on Windows 11. Microsoft really doesn’t want you creating a local account on Windows 11. is a senior correspondent and author of Notepad, who ...

Microsoft is tightening the reins on new installations of Windows 11 with stricter Microsoft account requirements. As participants in the Windows Insider Program have ...