Using a local account on Windows 11 has its benefits, as explained by Microsoft on accident.
  • Microsoft inadvertently highlighted the benefits of using a local account over a Microsoft account on Windows 11 in a recent support page update.
  • Using a local account allows for offline sign-in, is independent of cloud services, and limits settings, files, and applications to a single device, enhancing privacy.
  • Despite these benefits, Microsoft requires internet access or workarounds for the initial setup of Windows 11, making it challenging to use a local account from the start.
  • MudMan
    4•6 months ago

    Well, yeah, but that’s the clarification I’m making. By default you DO need a connection to create or sign in to an account to complete the install process as it’s currently presented, but once an account is set up you can log in to that machine whether it’s connected to the Internet or not. The summary makes it sound like you need to be online for every login, which is not the case.

    • deweydecibelEnglish
      3•6 months ago

      By default you DO need a connection to create or sign in to an account to complete the install process as it’s currently presented

      You don’t “need” it, they lie to you and imply it’s a requirement, but it isn’t needed. It’ll download updates, and finish the install just fine with local account.

      • MudMan
        1•6 months ago

        Sure, and you can go back to a local account from a MS account after the fact, I believe. But I’m going with the supported, default flows that MS surfaces to users without any workarounds here. I’m not even trying to nitpick.