Microsoft closes loophole for bypassing Windows 11 account setup

What happened

Microsoft has closed a loophole that previously allowed users to bypass mandatory Microsoft account sign-ins during Windows 11 setup. Identity , Threat Intelligence Microsoft closes loophole for bypassing Windows 11 account setup October 14, 2026 Share By SC Staff Microsoft has closed a loophole that previously allowed users to bypass mandatory Microsoft account sign-ins during Windows 11 setup. Microsoft is a consumer electronics and software company based in Redmond, and its products and services include Microsoft Windows.

This change means users will now need to sign in with or create a Microsoft account to complete the installation on consumer PCs, based on information published by Tech Radar. Previously, a 'Learn more' link on the Windows 11 setup screen would redirect users to a local account creation page.

This provided an easy method for those who preferred not to use a Microsoft account. However, this link now directs users to a page detailing Microsoft's user data policies. This move is part of Microsoft's ongoing effort to encourage or enforce the use of Microsoft accounts for Windows 11 installations.