Windows 10, the predecessor of Windows 11, continues to dominate the operating system market despite the release of its newer version. While Windows 11 prompts users to upgrade, many have been able to bypass this without much trouble. However, Microsoft is now introducing another prompt, this time urging Windows 10 users to switch from using a local account to their online Microsoft account.
The most recent Windows 10 update Release Preview includes new notifications aimed at encouraging users to make the switch. These notifications are displayed in the Settings > Home section and highlight the benefits of using a Microsoft account. According to Microsoft, a Microsoft account connects Windows to Microsoft apps, backs up data, helps manage subscriptions, and provides additional security measures. The notifications will be displayed across the Start menu and Settings.
Using a Microsoft account offers advantages such as easy access to Microsoft’s cloud features and backups. However, some users may prefer the privacy and control that comes with using local accounts, where all data remains on personal devices. The important point is that it remains the user’s choice, and once a decision is made, there should be no further pressure to switch to a Microsoft account.
Fortunately, Windows 10 still allows users to use a local account instead of a Microsoft account. To disable the Microsoft account notification, users can follow these steps:
1. Open the Settings app and click on the Privacy option.
2. Navigate to the General section.
3. Turn off the “Show me suggested content in the Settings app” option.
Additionally, users can click the small “X” icon next to the “Sign in now” button on the Microsoft accounts banner to remove the notification.
It is worth noting that Windows 11 does not offer the same ease of choosing a local account over a Microsoft account, as Elon Musk recently discovered. However, for Windows 10 users who prefer to stick with a local account, these steps provide a way to disable the prompts and banners urging them to switch.
In conclusion, while Windows 10 continues to be the most popular operating system for PCs, Microsoft is now encouraging users to switch from local accounts to Microsoft accounts. This move offers benefits such as cloud features and backups, but it is essential to respect user choices and provide options for privacy and control. By following the steps outlined above, Windows 10 users can disable the Microsoft account notification and continue using their preferred account type.
