Microsoft is planning a move that will surely be controversial. Specifically, the company is looking to force Windows 11 Pro users into having a Microsoft Account. In other words, having an account with Microsoft is to become a requirement to have Windows 11 Pro. Microsoft will also ask that users have an internet connection.
It is worth nothing both these requirements will only be necessary to set up the OS. However, it may be a step some people are unwilling to take. While someone may want to use Windows, they may not necessarily want to participate in Microsoft's wider ecosystem.
Until now, the company has kept that decision entirely up to Pro users, with no obligation to have a Microsoft Account. But in an update on the release page for Windows 11 Preview Build 22557, the software giant says the following:
“Similar to Windows 11 Home edition, Windows 11 Pro edition now requires internet connectivity during the initial device setup (OOBE) only. If you choose to setup device for personal use, MSA will be required for setup as well. You can expect Microsoft Account to be required in subsequent WIP flights.”
Standard Practice
As the company points out, these requirements are already part of the deal for Windows 11 Home. I reported on those requirements just after Microsoft introduced the platform.
It is worth noting Microsoft's stance is now standard in the teach realm. For example, Google takes a stricter approach with Chrome OS. Not only is a Google account needed to setup Chrome OS, one is also necessary just to use the platform.
The decision makes sense from Microsoft's perspective. The company wants to bring people into its ecosystem, and not just Windows. So, that means Office applications, cloud syncing, Microsoft Teams, and the Microsoft Store.
Tip of the day: It's a good idea to backup your computer on a regular basis, and the most fool-proof way is to manually create a disk image and save it to an external hard drive.
