[McAtNite]

This line of thinking only makes sense if you actively use OneDrive. If you don’t and have no interest in using it why leave it running? It’s bad enough that they automatically bundle it into Windows, but intrusively forcing a user to explain why they are using their own hardware in a certain way is silly.

I’m going to guess that the intersection of people who actively close unneeded background programs, and the users who are willing to explore alternatives overlaps quite a bit. This seems like a really shortsighted decision on Microsoft’s part.

[SoftTalker]

Is it even possible to run Windows anymore without a Microsoft account?

If you only have a local account, OneDrive has nothing to sync to, right?

[McAtNite]

I’ve seen some guides in arduous ways to get around the Microsoft Account requirement, but I can’t say from experience. I abandoned Windows when the hardware requirements meant I couldn’t upgrade my personal computer to Win11.

[WarOnPrivacy]

> Is it even possible to run Windows anymore without a Microsoft account?

Sure. On Pro you choose Organization/Domain setup and create the local account. Home is harder and the process keeps shifting. There are guides.

> If you only have a local account, OneDrive has nothing to sync to, right?

Mostly correct except if you have a local account and an MS login for Store/Office/etc. It isn't syncing automatically (so far) but could be triggered accidentally.

Another first today. I saw a dot next to my username (Start->username) that was naggy notification to MS Account myself.

[unaindz]

Either install windows without being connected to the internet or log in using username: test pass: fuckmicrosoft It will fail to log in and offer to create a local account. PD: that password is optional, any password will do, but over time I noticed it is good for mental health.