Mandating Windows users to have and use a Microsoft account with Windows 11 Home Edition, does mean that local accounts are no longer an option?
We don’t have an answer to that question at the moment since it is still unclear whether Microsoft will still allow the end-users to create and use local accounts in Windows 11 Home Edition.
This move from Microsoft was already seen with Windows 10, wherein you will need to associate a valid Microsoft account during setup. However, local accounts can still be created and can be used. As for Windows 11, this option seems to blur and might not be an option anymore.
What If We Only Have One Computer With Multiple Users
The problem now is when you have only one computer at home and you are sharing it with someone. In most cases, you have a separate profile or account login for the same computer. If what we think about the new Windows 11 Home Edition is true, then, each user of that same computer will be required to have their own Microsoft accounts.
However, it is possible that the need for Microsoft accounts is not meant for creating profiles at all. We think that it’s more about requiring the end-users to have a valid registered Microsoft account to complete the Windows 11 setup.
This was mentioned as one of the system requirements of Windows 11.
Windows 11 Home edition requires internet connectivity and a Microsoft account.
Switching a device out of Windows 11 Home in S mode also requires internet connectivity. Learn more about S mode here.
For all Windows 11 editions, internet access is required to perform updates and to download and take advantage of some features. A Microsoft account is required for some features.
The Windows 11 system requirements did not explicitly say that it will not allow any more users to create local accounts, but it is too early to confirm.
