Windows 10 installation process now requires you to sign in with a Microsoft account. If you prefer to use a local user account, Microsoft recommends that you switch from Microsoft to a local user account later. Here’s how.
What would you like to know
There is a way to configure Windows 10 without using a Microsoft account. If you disconnect your system from the Internet, you will be able to connect with a local user account. It works whether you go through the setup process on a new PC or install Windows 10 from scratch.
But, if you have already configured. Windows 10 and creating or using an existing Microsoft account will not be of much help.
This process will keep all of your files and programs installed. You will not lose anything. However, Windows 10 will no longer synchronize your settings between your PCs and will not use other features linked to Microsoft accounts. You can still connect to individual applications with a Microsoft account without logging into your PC with this Microsoft account.
We are not saying that everyone should use a local account. The choice is yours! We provide these instructions because Microsoft makes using a local account much more confusing.
RELATED: How to create a local account when setting up Windows 10
Switch to a local account from a Microsoft account
You will do this from the Windows 10 settings application. To open it, click on the Start button and click on the “Settings” gear icon on the left or press Windows + i (this is a “I” in lower case).
Click the “Accounts” icon in the Settings window.
Click “Connect with a local account instead.” This option is found in the “Your information” tab, which will be selected by default. Your Microsoft account details are displayed here.
Windows 10 will ask you if you are sure you want to continue, warning you that you will lose Microsoft account features like the ability to sync your Windows 10 settings between your PCs. To continue, click on “Next”.
When prompted by Windows 10, enter your PIN or password to verify your identity.
You will be asked to enter a username, password and password hint for your local user account. The tip is displayed when someone tries to log in with an incorrect password.
Enter the details you want to use and click “Next”.
You are almost done. Click on “Disconnect and finish”. The next time you log in, you will need to provide your new password.
If you want to use a Microsoft account in the future, return to the Settings> Accounts> Your information screen. You can link your local account to a Microsoft account by providing the username and password for a Microsoft account.