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 ...

Yes, you can log into your personal PC without using a Microsoft account. Here’s how to choose a local account during or after the Windows 11 setup process. Get the web's best business technology news ...

For as long as I can remember, I have always set up my PC using a local account. It was because I prioritized privacy over a bunch of services I didn't really need, and I didn't want Microsoft ...

Upgrading to Windows 11 is still possible even after Windows 10 reached the end of support on October 14, 2025. Although many devices continue to run the retired operating system, switching to Windows ...

Microsoft is closing more loopholes that allowed users to set up Windows 11 with a local account. Users will now be required to connect their PCs to the internet and use a Microsoft account to ...

This is important because: Microsoft is closing the side doors to offline setup. As familiar workarounds disappear, most people are guided toward a Microsoft account on day one, which narrows choice ...