URGENT UPDATE: Microsoft has intensified its crackdown on local accounts for Windows 11, making it significantly harder to set up a PC without linking to a Microsoft account. As of July 2023, new reports confirm that users face increasing challenges in bypassing this requirement, which some argue compromises user privacy.
This latest development is crucial for users who prefer local accounts for greater privacy. While Microsoft claims this policy aims to enhance user experience and streamline setup, many see it as a tactic to gather more personal data and promote services like OneDrive and Xbox Game Pass.
Microsoft’s harsh stance means that during the Windows 11 setup, users must log into a Microsoft account first, with the option to switch to a local account available only afterward. However, users have reported that even after switching, their PCs often remain linked to the Microsoft account.
The implications of this policy change are significant. Local accounts allow users to maintain their personal data and settings on their devices without Microsoft’s cloud oversight. They also permit offline access, freeing users from Microsoft’s promotional content and advertisements.
Despite the crackdown, there are still methods to create local accounts. Currently, users can employ the command prompt during setup by pressing Shift + F10 and entering workarounds like “start ms-cxh:localonly” or “oobe/bypassnro.” However, these may soon become unavailable.
Rufus, a tool for creating custom Windows installation media, has emerged as a key workaround. Users can download the Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft and utilize Rufus to create a bootable USB drive (minimum 8GB storage required) that bypasses the Microsoft account login requirement during installation. This development has been crucial as it allows users to continue utilizing local accounts despite Microsoft’s tightening restrictions.
To create the custom installation media, users must select the Windows 11 ISO in Rufus and ensure they check the option to “Remove requirement for an online Microsoft account.” This step is critical for users looking to maintain their independence from Microsoft’s ecosystem.
It’s noteworthy that the latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build, 26220.6772, still allows users with a Windows 11 Pro license to bypass the Microsoft account requirement by selecting “set up for work or school.” However, this workaround is limited and may not be available for personal use.
As Microsoft continues to evolve its policies, experts expect these workarounds to be patched out, making it increasingly challenging for users to avoid the Microsoft account login during setup. The trend raises concerns about user autonomy and privacy, particularly for those who find Windows 11 less favorable compared to its predecessor, Windows 10.
In conclusion, while Microsoft promotes the benefits of linked accounts, the sentiment among many users suggests a growing frustration with these invasive measures. For anyone looking to maintain their privacy and control, adopting workarounds like Rufus may be essential—at least for now. As these changes unfold, users must stay vigilant in navigating the shifting landscape of Windows 11.
For those who prioritize flexibility and privacy, exploring alternatives or considering a switch to other operating systems may soon become an unavoidable conversation.
