Tim Elliott

BREAKING: Microsoft says it'll block you from setting up Windows 11 with a local account. A Microsoft account is now a requirement during OOBE (out of the box experience). Microsoft says a local account does not allow Windows 11 to set up properly, and users skip "critical setup screens" when they bypass a Microsoft account. Microsoft: We are removing known mechanisms for creating a local account in the Windows Setup experience (OOBE). While the mechanisms were often used to bypass Microsoft account setup, they also inadvertently skip critical setup screens, potentially causing users to exit OOBE with a device that is not fully configured for use. Users will need to complete OOBE with internet and a Microsoft account, to ensure device is setup correctly. We tested, and it's no longer possible to set up Windows 11 without a Microsoft account. We're in OOBE loop when trying to bypass the requirement. You need to sign-in, then you can sign-out and use a local account again.