Windows 11 User Gets Locked Out for Skipping Microsoft Account Setup, and People Are Not Having It

On June 17th, a Windows 11 user shared a frustrating experience on Reddit that quickly sparked outrage: they were completely locked out of their new laptop for skipping the Microsoft account setup. The system refused to proceed unless they created or logged into a Microsoft account with no “offline” option, no workaround, just a digital dead-end.

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What really happened?

The user, posting in the r/Microsoft subreddit, explained that after completing the initial setup and choosing to shut down before signing in, they later returned to find their machine locked behind a Microsoft account prompt. The OS offered no way to use a local account or bypass the login screen. The laptop essentially became a paperweight until they linked it to the cloud.

Others in the thread confirmed similar issues, with several users saying they faced identical restrictions on recent Windows 11 builds. Some noticed Microsoft’s setup screen now removes the “Sign-in options” link unless the device connects to the internet, effectively forcing users into an account they might not want.

The backlash wasn’t subtle. Many users criticized Microsoft’s push for account integration, arguing it strips away control and forces cloud dependency. “You don’t own your device anymore,” one commenter wrote. Others called it “anti-consumer” and accused Microsoft of locking users into an ecosystem they never agreed to join.

This incident highlights a growing concern: Microsoft appears to be tightening its grip on how people use Windows. While account integration makes sense for syncing services, not everyone wants or needs it. Forcing users to connect online and register undermines the idea of a personal computer.

Microsoft hasn’t responded publicly to the Reddit thread. But if this trend continues, expect more users to either rebel or jump ship entirely.

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