On October 12, 2026, The Register reported that its test on real Intel hardware found clicking “Learn More” at Windows 11’s Microsoft-account prompt no longer led to local-account creation.
What the shortcut did—and what the test found
The link appeared during the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE), Windows’ initial setup flow. It had previously taken users from the Microsoft-account prompt to fields for a local-account name and password. The Register also attributed a server-side-patch description to Windows tinkerer Bob Pony.
Two alternatives described for Windows 11 26H2
A Tech Based guide labeled for Windows 11 26H2 describes two other ways to create a local account during setup. One uses Command Prompt in OOBE to create a user, add it to the Administrators group, then return to setup and restart. The other uses Rufus to prepare installation media, with an option to remove the online Microsoft-account requirement and, optionally, specify a local username.
The routes differ in when the work happens: the Command Prompt method is carried out during OOBE, while the Rufus option involves preparing installation media. Tech Based presents both in its 26H2 guide.
For Windows 11 Home and Pro for personal use, The Register says a Microsoft account is required during initial setup.
