Did I scare Microsoft into removing its guide on how to switch to a local account on Windows 11?
Microsoft has removed its guide on how to switch from a Microsoft account to a local account on Windows 11.
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What you need to know
Earlier this month, Microsoft shared a guide on how to switch from a local account to a Microsoft account on Windows 11. That piece garnered attention around the web because it also listed how to switch from a Microsoft account to a local account. I went as far as to sayMicrosoft accidentally listed the benefits of not using a Microsoft account on Windows 11. Perhaps somewhat in Redmond saw my piece and other coverage, because the support page no longer outlines the steps to switch from a Microsoft account to a local account.
Of course, I was not the only journalist to cover the updated support page when it first appeared. As far as I can tell,Neowinwas the first outlet to spot the page and write about it. I then covered the news, as did several other outlets.Microsoft’s pageabout switching the type of account you use remains live, but it no longer lists the steps to switch from a Microsoft account to a local account. TheWayback Machinearchived the page before the change.
In addition to removing the guide on how to switch the type of account you use on your PC, Microsoft removed its list of the differences between a local account and a Microsoft account. The page previously said:
I argued that those sound like benefits, not drawbacks. It’s possible to sign into your PC without an internet connection if you’ve already set up your computer, but the initial out of box experience requires an internet connection. You can then switch to a local account later. Many argue that Microsoft should add a clear and obvious way to use a local account during the out of box experience.
There are workarounds that allow you to set up a PC without a Microsoft account, but even that has become more difficult.
It looks like Microsoft has blocked the bypass that allowed you to create a local account during Windows 11 setup by typing in a blocked email address. Now it just loops you back to typing in a different account :( pic.twitter.com/mKnHToLLQVJune 3, 2024
So, did Microsoft remove its guide on how to switch from a Microsoft account to a local account because of pressure from the media? That is impossible to say. But let me outline a timeline of events:
Regardless of the reason for the guide’s removal, the process of switching to a local account on Windows 11 has not changed:
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Windows 11 will then guide you through the process of switching to a local account on your PC.
Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
