Forum Discussion
Preventing Azure AD Registration / Microsoft Support can not help
If you're looking to prevent Azure AD registration on a Windows device and you've found that Microsoft Support is unable to assist, you might need to take matters into your own hands. Here are some steps you can consider taking:
Group Policy: If you have access to Group Policy settings (especially on Windows Pro, Enterprise, or Education editions), you can configure policies to control Azure AD registration. Look for policies related to "User Account Control" or "Azure AD Join." These policies can help restrict or control the registration process.
Registry Edits: Be cautious with this option, as editing the Windows Registry can potentially cause issues if not done correctly. However, there might be specific registry keys you can modify to prevent Azure AD registration. Before making any changes, it's wise to back up your registry and research thoroughly.
Local Account Creation: Consider creating local user accounts instead of Microsoft accounts during the initial setup of your Windows device. This can help prevent the automatic Azure AD registration that typically occurs with Microsoft accounts.
Network Configuration: In some cases, Azure AD registration might be triggered when the device is connected to a specific network. You can try disconnecting from the network during setup and connecting after setting up the local account.
Offline Setup: Disconnect your device from the internet during the initial setup process. This might prevent the automatic Azure AD registration. However, keep in mind that this approach could limit some functionality until you reconnect.
Professional Assistance: If you're uncomfortable with advanced settings or edits, consider consulting with an IT professional or consultant who has expertise in managing Windows devices and Azure AD.
Remember that while these steps might help prevent Azure AD registration, they could also have unintended consequences or limit some functionality. Always ensure you have backups of your data and system settings before making any significant changes. Additionally, research thoroughly or consult with professionals to avoid potential issues.
