Microsoft account vs. local account: How to choose and set up your pick in Windows 11

The Windows 11 setup program really, really wants you to use a Microsoft account instead of a local account. Here's everything you need to know about your options.

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ZDNET's key takeaways

• A Microsoft account has some advantages, but a local account is fine for Windows 11.
• Microsoft doesn't make it easy to set up a local account on a new PC.
• There are workarounds, but they depend on which edition you're running.

When you set up a Windows 11 PC for the first time, you're required to create a user account that allows you to act as the administrator for that computer. On a PC you're setting up for personal use (at home or in a small office), the Windows Setup program really, really wants you to use a Microsoft account ...