The Benefits of Using a Local Account in Windows 11 [Paid Subs]

A local account gives you more control over how you use Windows 11. Learn what you gain, what you lose, and why some users still prefer keeping their PC independent from Microsoft.

One of the things that frustrates many Windows users is the feeling that Microsoft keeps pushing them toward a Microsoft account for everything.

When you set up a new Windows 11 PC, Microsoft strongly encourages you to sign in with an online account. In some versions of Windows, it can even feel like using a local account isn’t an option at all.

But what …