<p>Microsoft is steadily moving to make signing in with a Microsoft account mandatory on Windows 11, making it increasingly difficult for users to rely on local accounts that don’t require an email address. In the latest developer preview build, the company has removed key workarounds that allowed users to bypass the online sign-in step during installation.</p>
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<p>One of the most well-known bypass methods is the “OOBE\BYPASSNRO” command-line method, which allows users to proceed with a local account and avoid connecting to the Internet. Another, more recent workaround has also been disabled. Microsoft explains these changes as a way to prevent devices from being improperly set up, claiming that skipping these steps could result in missed critical configuration screens. Critics, however, point out that the screens being “skipped” are often promotional in nature, pushing Microsoft 365 subscriptions, Xbox Game Pass offers, or optional data-collection features like Windows Recall.</p>
<p>The push toward mandatory online accounts extends beyond Windows 11. Windows 10 users who want access to Extended Security Updates (ESU) after the system reaches end-of-life in 2025 will also need to sign in with a Microsoft account. This demonstrates Microsoft’s broader strategy to integrate its ecosystem, security, and cloud services, encouraging users to adopt a connected experience rather than relying on offline flexibility.</p>
<p>While these changes currently appear only in the developer preview, they signal a clear direction: Microsoft is prioritizing account-based, cloud-integrated Windows experiences over local accounts and offline setups. For users who value privacy or prefer to keep their devices independent of Microsoft’s cloud, the trend points toward fewer options and a more rigid sign-in process across both Windows 10 and Windows 11.</p>
<p>This approach may simplify service integration and management for Microsoft but could frustrate those accustomed to offline or local account setups, raising questions about the balance between convenience, privacy, and user choice.</p>