For privacy reasons or other reasons

Since the introduction of Windows 8 in 2012, Microsoft’s operating systems have become increasingly online-oriented, and Windows 11 is no exception. Whether it’s verifying your digital license, using Microsoft’s various built-in apps and services, or syncing settings and activities across devices, you’ll need a Microsoft account for a seamless Windows PC experience.

But if you're concerned about your privacy or other concerns, you can remove your Microsoft account from Windows 11. The instructions in this tutorial will show you what to do to switch to a local user account, including how to avoid signing into a Microsoft account the next time you set up Windows 11 from scratch.

With a Microsoft account with Windows 11, you can sync (or back up) your PC settings, download age-restricted games and movies from the Microsoft Store, upload photos and documents to OneDrive, and more. Best of all, it’s free.