In Windows 11, Microsoft wants you to sign up for your device using a Microsoft account. It comes with other benefits, including greater integration with Microsoft’s cloud-based services (such as OneDrive or Office), the ability to synchronize content between computers, and greater security.
There are many advantages to having the online option; most users prefer the old-fashioned experience of a local account. The issue is that Microsoft is making it difficult to install Windows 11 without a Microsoft account. For instance, Microsoft has already removed the option of a Microsoft account from the initial setup in Windows 11 Home. The company plans to remove it entirely from Windows 11 Pro setup in future versions.
But, regardless of whether you’re using Windows 11 in the Home or Pro version in Windows 11, you have several solutions (via Reddit) to set up an installation using an account on your local computer instead of a Microsoft account. This Windows 11 guide will guide you through the various methods to set up a new installation without having a Microsoft account.
Do you need to use Windows 11 without a Microsoft account?
What you should be aware of with Microsoft account is they can improve the user experience of Windows 11. If you sign in to Windows 11 with your Microsoft account, it is also integrated into applications that are part of the system, such as those from the Microsoft Store, Mail, Xbox and more. Additionally, it allows you to transfer your settings between devices. This lets you buy movies and applications through Microsoft Store, for example. Microsoft Store, for example. If you don’t have a Microsoft login, however, you cannot download apps for free from the Store if they come with an age-related rating that requires verification. This includes apps such as Netflix and Spotify due to the vast array of available content.
Install Windows 11 Without a Microsoft Account
This is the most straightforward method of installing Windows without having a Microsoft account. You don’t have to launch Command Prompt, run commands or deactivate the internet connection. This is a tried and tested method that works without any hassle. Here’s how you can do it.
- Connect first to Wi-Fi, then follow the setup process as usual. If you use a wired Ethernet connection, ensure it is active.
- Once you’ve reached your Microsoft sign-in screen, enter a@a.com in the email field and select “Next.” Don’t worry. This is a dummy account that’s locked. Account to get around the Microsoft account requirements.
- On the next screen on the next page, type in any password you would like to finish the procedure. After that, click “Sign in.”
- As it’s a locked one, Microsoft will straight away begin making your local account. You’ll see the “Oops, something went wrong” error message, and you can set up local accounts on Windows 11. Click on “Next.”
You can now make a local account for Windows 11 with ease. What a great solution, isn’t it? It is now possible to use Windows 11 without logging into your Microsoft account.
Create a Local Account on Windows 11 After Installation
If you’ve downloaded Windows 11 and wish to set up a local account for Windows 11, follow our instructions below. It is compatible with Windows 11 Home and Pro users. Below are the instructions to follow:
- Click”Windows + I” or the Windows 11 keyboard shortcut “Windows + I” to launch the Settings application. In this app, select “Accounts” from the left sidebar and select “Family and other users” in the upper right-hand pane.
- Then, click the “Add account” button under “Other users.”
- In the pop-up window, you can click “I don’t have this person’s sign-in information” to create an account locally.
- After that, click “Add a user without a Microsoft account.”
- Enter the username and password for the new local account, and select “Next.” That’s it. You’ve successfully created an account locally on Your Windows 11 PC.
Making the switch to a local bank account
Even if you initially set your computer up with a Microsoft account, you can switch to a local account anytime. There is no obligation to sign up for a Microsoft account for the duration of your computer. To access this, you must open the Settings application and head into the Accounts section. Select Your information, and then select Sign in with the local account instead.
Make sure you log out of your Microsoft account and verify your identity. You’ll then need to establish an account locally. A password is not required; however, we’d suggest using one.
Then, click to sign out and close the process, and you’ll be signed out of your account. You can then sign in to your local account on the screen of your lock. Be aware that your Microsoft account could be used by applications like those in the Microsoft Store. You can unsubscribe from them individually, too.
If you’d like to reinstate your account, you can access the account settings above and sign in again.