Microsoft plans to require a Microsoft Account and an Internet connection for Windows 11 Pro. In doing so, the professional edition of the OS succeeds the Home version, despite criticism of the requirement.
Windows as an operating system works perfectly well without any kind of online account. That reality is not stopping Microsoft from ramming its Microsoft Account down the throats of unwilling users anyway. Microsoft plans to make setup of Windows 11 Pro impossible without an account and Internet connection. This will give Windows 11 Pro the same artificial requirement as Windows 11 Home.
“Like the Windows 11 Home edition, Windows 11 Pro will now require an Internet connection during initial setup,” Microsoft said in a blog post. “If you choose to set up your device for personal use, a Microsoft Account will also be required for setup.” Basically, though, it remains an option to create a local account after the setup process and throw the Microsoft Account off your system again.
No added value for users
The tweak is one that benefits Microsoft but does not add value for users. The move has the sole purpose of keeping Windows users more attached to the company. Microsoft itself usually screens with fallacies such as extra functionality requiring an account, but that is beside the point. Those who want to enjoy it can create an account. A requirement serves no purpose anywhere.
Microsoft has been actively trying to discourage offline accounts since 2019. Initially, Pro users were left out. So now that is about to change. Microsoft is currently testing the functionality (or removal of functionality) in Insider Preview Build 22557 and will basically integrate it into future updates of its OS. When Microsoft will effectively roll out this customer-unfriendly update is not yet known. The recent major update to Windows 11 will be spared from it.
We ourselves understand the benefits of a Microsoft account, but they are beside the point in this case. After all, its usefulness is not in question, but its obligation is. In a response, Microsoft confirms the plans. The company says it does not want to release anything additional on the subject for now.
Update 21/02: brief Microsoft response.