Forum Discussion
Nobel_Baynes
Jan 03, 2025Iron Contributor
Any way to install Windows 11 with local account for 24H2
I have been installing Windows 11 on multiple PCs and laptops. Some of the are fully compatible with Windows 11 and some of them are not. However, one issue that annoys me is that it takes too much t...
JacksonRobertson
Jan 09, 2025Iron Contributor
Installing Windows 11 24H2 (or any version of Windows 11) with a local account isn't inherently "dangerous,"
- Local Account: This is like having a standalone account on your computer. You can use it without connecting to Microsoft’s services. It gives you more privacy since it won’t share as much data with Microsoft, but it also means you won't have access to some neat features that are based on a Microsoft account (like OneDrive integration, syncing settings across devices, or access to Microsoft Store apps).
- Microsoft Account: This is linked to all of Microsoft's online services. If you want a seamless experience with things like cloud storage, syncing your settings, and easier access to apps and services, having a Microsoft account is pretty handy.
My Experience
From what I've seen (and experienced), using a local account can be great for those who value privacy and want to keep their stuff local. But if you're someone who relies on cloud storage or uses multiple Windows devices, you might find it a bit more of a hassle. For instance, I set up a machine with a local account once, and while it felt secure at first, I quickly missed the convenience of features like syncing my desktop and settings across devices.
Trade-Offs
- Ease of Access: With a Microsoft account, you can easily reset your password online and recover access if you forget it. A local account might lead to a headache if you forget your password because you won’t have those recovery options.
- Updates and Features: Some features in Windows 11, like certain security features and updates, might be tied to having a Microsoft account. If you’re using a local account, you might miss out on some of these improvements.
- Simplicity: If you plan to use your Windows machine mostly for basic tasks (like browsing, gaming, or working without the need for cloud services), then a local account can keep things simple and straightforward.