Talking about the biggest secrets on how to avoid Microsoft’s plans, one can never leave out on the discussion of installing Windows 8.1 without an MS account. While Microsoft seriously “requires” you to log in with an MS account, you can still manage to upgrade and install this latest Windows version using your local account. But hey! Let’s be fair here. Logging in with MS account has its advantages and perks, such as using SkyDrive for cloud storage, synchronizing your themes, personalized settings, browser settings, Start Screen tiles across every Windows 8/8.1 devices anywhere in the world, etc. But, shouldn’t the option of using either of the accounts be left to the user himself?
Prior to proceeding this piece for the solution, let be advised to first Scan and Fix your system’s concealed disorders which most probably is eliciting the inconsistencies:
- Step 1 : Download Systimizer – PC Cleaner & Internet Booster (Works on Windows 10, 8, 7 & XP)
- Step 2 : Click “Scan” to find system issues
- Step 3 : Click “Fix” to repair all anomalies
If you wish to keep your files more private and stop Microsoft from tracking your every PC search via your MS account, read this article and get to know the secret steps to upgrading to Windows 8.1 using your local account.
Steps for Upgrading to Windows 8.1 without MS Account
In order to upgrade to Windows 8.1, follow the steps below and reach the Sign in part of the process
- Enter the Start Screen by pressing the Windows key, and then click Store
- Wait for the Store to launch and then click the Windows 8.1 update link
- Click the Download button to start the upgrading process.
Windows will now check that all necessary requirements needed to perform and complete the installation are fulfilled and perfectly met, such as enough disk space, correctly installed apps and devices, updated files and drivers etc. If all these necessities meet the requirements, the update will proceed successfully and notify you of the installation. No user intervention is required during these steps, until you reach the final step that requires you to restart the system in order to finish the installation.
Once the restart is complete, the next step is to choose and set your settings. This process will start by asking you to accept the Licensing terms presented by Microsoft. Review these terms and click I accept to continue.
Next, you will be presented by a list of recommended settings, termed as Express Settings. You could either choose these recommended settings and click Use express settings or create your own settings using the Customize button. This option is entirely up to you.
Once the settings are correctly chosen and set, you will be asked to sign in to your machine. This is where the trick to upgrading using local account starts. Continue to the following section and get to know how to tackle this step in order to upgrade without the MS account.
Sign in using Local Account
Microsoft would want you sign in to your machine using the MS account. However, if you wish to use your local account, follow the easy steps below:
- Click Create a new account displayed at the bottom of the Sign in to your Microsoft account box.
- This will open the Create a Microsoft account box. Bypass this step and click Sign in without a MS account cleverly hidden below.
- Enter your Username and Password like you always do, and create a local account that will have no links to the online world. Once done, click Finish.
Clicking the Finish button will complete the sign in section, and allow the installer to load and display the Windows 8.1 Start Screen. Congratulations! You have upgraded to Windows 8.1 without using your Microsoft Account.
Related Article:
Fix Modern Apps and Windows Store After Upgrading to Windows 8.1
