Windows 10 local accounts offer enhanced privacy and control over your PC. Explore the benefits and learn how to create a local account in just a few steps.
You've set up a new Windows computer at home and want to use a local account instead of a Microsoft account, but you don't see any clear options for the local account, depending on your Windows version. There are several ways you can use a Local account.
First of all, why choose a local account instead of a Microsoft account. The Microsoft account has some advantages, especially when you have more than one Windows computer, you can sync Windows themes and other settings on different computers. If you want to use OneDrive to backup and sync files, you need to have a Microsoft Account. In addition you can also log in to Windows, Microsoft 365, Microsoft Store and Xbox Live with the same account.
However, Microsoft accounts still have some privacy and security risks. Microsoft will use them to monitor your activity inside and outside Windows to send you targeted advertisements to avoid such checks. Local accounts are a better choice than how to select a local route. Try to see options in all versions of Windows 10 and 11.
When you have Windows 10 Home, it's hard to pick a local account. But if you unplug the PC from the internet, you can make it think it is using one. Turn off the Ethernet or Wi-Fi link once you're done setting up.
At some point, you should see a screen that says "you need to connect to the internet." In the bottom right part of this screen, click the "I don't have internet" link.
Microsoft will try to convince you to connect to the internet (and use a Microsoft account). Click the Continue with limited setup option to set up your local account. You should then be able to create a username and password for your local account.
You must also choose three security questions and answers to gain access to your local account should you ever forget the password. Or you can directly reset Windows password.
Keep going through the setup screens until you're done. You'll be taken to the Windows 10 screen when the process is done. Now you can connect to the internet again and use your local account to log in to Windows.
A simple way to set up a local account is to tell Windows not to need the Internet to install or set up, and then turn off Internet access at the right time during the setup process. If you are installing Windows 10 for the first time or following the OOBE process on a computer you bought, this will work the same way.
Begin the Windows 10 installation process as you normally would until you reach the "choose a country" screen.
Prevent Internet Requirement: Just before cutting off the internet, hit Shift + F10 to open a command prompt.
Disable Internet Requirement: In the command prompt window, type OOBE\BYPASSNRO and press Enter. This command disables the internet connection requirement for Windows 10 setup.
Cut off Internet Access: The computer will reboot, returning you to the same screen. Again, press Shift + F10 to open the command prompt. This time, type ipconfig /release and press Enter to disable the internet.
Close Command Prompt: Once you've disabled the internet, close the command prompt window.
Continue Installation: Proceed with the installation by selecting your region, keyboard, and other preferences as usual.
Skip Internet Connection: When prompted to connect to a network, click on "I don't have Internet" to proceed.
Opt for Limited Setup: Next, click on "Continue with limited setup" to bypass the internet requirement.
Create Local Account: You'll then be prompted to create a local account. Enter the username you prefer for your local account and click "Next."
Set Password (Optional): Optionally, you can set a password for your local account by entering it in the designated field. Click "Next" to proceed. It's recommended to set a password for security purposes, but you can leave it blank if you prefer.
Complete Installation: Follow the remaining steps to complete the Windows 10 installation process as usual.
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Setting up a Windows 10 local account offers privacy and security benefits over using a Microsoft account. Despite the push from Microsoft to use their accounts, you can bypass this requirement by disconnecting from the internet during setup. By following the steps outlined, you can successfully create a local account and enjoy a more private computing experience. Additionally, using tools like AOMEI Partition Assistant can enhance your system's performance and provide robust disk management solutions.
Why should I choose a local account over a Microsoft account?
How can I set up a Windows 10 local account without internet?
What if I'm setting up Windows 10 and it forces me to connect to the internet?
OOBE\BYPASSNRO, and press Enter to disable the internet requirement. Then, use ipconfig /release to disable the internet and proceed with the setup.Can I switch to a local account if I've already set up Windows 10 with a Microsoft account?
What are the benefits of using AOMEI Partition Assistant with Windows 10?