14 DAY TRIAL // In theory, Windows can be used with either a local account or a Microsoft account, though on the other hand, everybody knows the software giant has been insisting on the latter.
Beginning with Windows 10, the Home version of the operating system can no longer be installed without a Microsoft account and Internet connection to sign in.
There’s simply no local account option when setting up Windows for the first time, and while some workarounds do exist – such as disconnecting the device from the Internet during the setup, the whole thing is obviously getting harder for users who just want a smooth ride.
The most recent Windows 11 preview build is now introducing the same change for Windows 11 Pro as well. In other words, if you want to install Windows 11 Pro, you need a Microsoft account and Internet connection, though most likely, the same workarounds as on Home will continue to do the job.
Currently part of Insider builds
Microsoft hasn’t provided an ETA as to when this change is projected to go live for all production devices, but for now, it’s being introduced in builds that are part of the Windows Insider program and therefore shipped to users for testing.
“Similar to Windows 11 Home edition, Windows 11 Pro edition now requires internet connectivity during the initial device setup (OOBE) only. If you choose to setup device for personal use, MSA will be required for setup as well. You can expect Microsoft Account to be required in subsequent WIP flights,” Microsoft explained.
Microsoft has promised to release improvements for the Windows experience at a faster pace, so in theory, there’s a chance this change would be introduced as part of a quality update. This means we may get the new Microsoft Account requirements before the feature update projected to go live in the second half of the year.