The Return of the Local Account: A Guide to Setting Up Windows 11 Without a Microsoft Account
London – August 5, 2025 – In a move that may please privacy-conscious users and those who prefer to keep their operating system setup independent of cloud services, Microsoft’s latest iteration of Windows 11 is reportedly offering a more streamlined path to establishing a local account during the initial setup process. This development, highlighted by The Register’s recent publication titled ‘Make Redmond angry by setting up Windows 11 with a local account,’ suggests a potential shift in Microsoft’s approach, allowing users greater flexibility from the outset.
For some time, Microsoft has increasingly encouraged, and in some cases, almost mandated, the use of a Microsoft Account during the Windows 11 installation. This approach offers benefits such as seamless synchronization of settings across devices, access to OneDrive, and integration with Microsoft services. However, it also means that a user’s digital identity is deeply intertwined with the Windows experience.
The recent report from The Register indicates that while the push for Microsoft Accounts remains, the ability to bypass this requirement and opt for a traditional local account during a fresh installation of Windows 11 is now more readily accessible. Previously, users often had to employ workarounds or disconnect from the internet entirely to avoid being forced into creating or signing in with a Microsoft Account.
Why Choose a Local Account?
The preference for a local account often stems from several key considerations:
- Privacy: A local account does not directly link your operating system usage to a Microsoft online profile. This can provide a greater sense of digital privacy, as data collection and synchronization are minimized.
- Independence from Cloud Services: For users who prefer to manage their data and settings entirely offline or through alternative cloud solutions, a local account offers a distinct advantage.
- Simplicity: For those who primarily use their computer for offline tasks or don’t require the integrated features of a Microsoft Account, a local account can offer a simpler, more direct setup.
- Offline-First Usage: In scenarios where internet connectivity is intermittent or unavailable, a local account ensures full functionality without reliance on online services.
Navigating the Setup Process:
While the exact methods may evolve with future Windows 11 updates, the core principle remains: users will likely need to identify and select the option to create a local account when prompted during the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE). This typically involves looking for phrases such as “Offline account,” “Sign in with a local account,” or similar wording. Often, these options are presented as alternatives to the primary “Sign in with a Microsoft account” or “Create an account” prompts.
It is important for users to be attentive during the initial setup to ensure they select the desired account type. If a Microsoft Account is inadvertently created or signed into, it is often possible to switch to a local account later through the Windows Settings menu, though this process might involve more steps than opting for it at the initial installation.
This reported ease of establishing a local account represents a welcome choice for a segment of Windows users, reaffirming the platform’s commitment to catering to diverse user preferences and privacy needs. As always, it is advisable for users to refer to Microsoft’s official documentation or reputable technology sources for the most up-to-date instructions regarding Windows 11 setup.
Make Redmond angry by setting up Windows 11 with a local account
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The Register published ‘Make Redmond angry by setting up Windows 11 with a local account’ at 2025-08-05 22:30. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.