Check out the best features and changes that Microsoft rolled out in 2025 for Windows 11, which are now available for version ...

Microsoft is removing known workarounds for local account creation in Windows 11 setup (OOBE), effectively making a Microsoft Account (MSA) mandatory for most users. The company cites proper ...

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

Microsoft is tightening the reins on new installations of Windows 11 with stricter Microsoft account requirements. As participants in the Windows Insider Program have ...

Microsoft is removing more methods that help users create local Windows accounts and bypass the Microsoft account requirement when installing Windows 11. The change ...

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 ...

Microsoft really doesn’t want you creating a local account on Windows 11. Microsoft really doesn’t want you creating a local account on Windows 11. is a senior editor and author of Notepad, who has ...

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Microsoft is now mandating the use of a Microsoft account during Windows 11 setup, removing workarounds for local account creation. The company states this ensures devices are fully configured and ...

Microsoft has been cracking down on the use of local accounts since the launch of Windows 11, but it's now almost impossible ...

Microsoft is tightening the screws on local account creation in Windows 11, removing well-known workarounds that let users skip the Microsoft account requirement during setup, with an active internet ...