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 ...

Say goodbye to local installations, as Microsoft continues its crackdown on those who want to avoid a Microsoft account.

The Windows setup process has generally required an Internet connection and Microsoft account sign-in since the Windows 11 ...

Microsoft is tightening restrictions around creating local accounts during Windows 11 setup, making it harder for users to avoid signing into a Microsoft account. In the latest Windows Insider Dev ...

Microsoft removes remaining Windows 11 local account bypass methods, making Microsoft accounts and internet connectivity ...

Microsoft is cracking down on bypass methods that let Windows 11 installs use a local account, and avoid an internet requirement during the setup process. In a new Windows 11 test build released today ...

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).

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 ...