Unlock the Benefits of a Windows 10 Local Account

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.

Irene

By Irene / Updated on June 3, 2024

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How to Set Up Windows 10 With a Local Account

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.

reset-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.

How to do Windows 10 setup without Microsoft Account

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.

Install AOMEI Partition Assistant After Windows 10 Download

AOMEI Partition Assistant is a versatile and easy-to-use disk management tool for Windows 10. It has features that help reduce the complexity of partition and drive management tasks. It focuses on data security, and features start-up media options and basic data recovery functions. This software is a reliable solution for household and corporate users to ensure efficient storage management and system optimization. Besides, it even allows you to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 without losing data. You can free download it and have a try.

AOMEI Partition Assistant

The Best Windows Disk Partition Manager and PC Optimizer

  • Partition size adjustment: This tool allows users to adjust partition size without losing data, whether partition size expansion or decrease will meet user storage needs to optimize disk usage. In partition management area, it also offers these powerful functions:

partition manager

  • Copying and Cloning Drive: AOMEI Partition Assistant enables smooth data transfer and backup by creating a complete copy of your disk or partition to ensure your data is secure. For example, you can transfer HDD OS to SSD without any data loss and reinstalling on Windows 11,10,8,7.

  • Partition Recovery: In case of an emergency deletion or loss of partition, this tool allows users to scan partitions to maximize data integrity protection and minimize the risk of data loss.

  • Drive Conversion: Users can easily convert disks between different file systems such as converting from MBR to GPT or converting back without damaging data. For many computer problems, AOMEI software can provide many other useful functions as well:

smart-disk-and-data-management-wizard

  • Drive Optimization: AOMEI Partition Assistant also features a hard drive health monitor function that optimizes SSD performance and reduces wear and extends drive life.

Conclusion

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.

FAQs

  1. Why should I choose a local account over a Microsoft account?

    • A local account offers enhanced privacy and security as it prevents Microsoft from tracking your activity and sending targeted advertisements. It also allows you to use Windows without an internet connection.
  2. How can I set up a Windows 10 local account without internet?

    • During the Windows 10 setup, disconnect from the internet when prompted to connect. Click "I don't have internet" and "Continue with limited setup" to create a local account.
  3. What if I'm setting up Windows 10 and it forces me to connect to the internet?

    • Open a command prompt by pressing Shift + F10, type OOBE\BYPASSNRO, and press Enter to disable the internet requirement. Then, use ipconfig /release to disable the internet and proceed with the setup.
  4. Can I switch to a local account if I've already set up Windows 10 with a Microsoft account?

    • Yes, you can switch to a local account. Go to Settings > Accounts > Your Info, select "Sign in with a local account instead," and follow the prompts.
  5. What are the benefits of using AOMEI Partition Assistant with Windows 10?

    • AOMEI Partition Assistant offers easy partition management, data recovery, disk cloning, drive conversion, and system optimization, making it a valuable tool for maintaining and improving your computer's performance.
Irene
Irene · Staff Editor
Irene is an Editor of AOMEI Technology. She devotes herself in giving insightful thoughts on common computer problems with simple and clear guidance. Irene loves to help people solve problems and explore more solutions on relevant issues. She loves reading, singing and travelling.