Windows 10, you don't have to have a Microsoft Account

[neroas]

A recent castanet article says you need a Microsoft Account for windows 10 to function properly, this is not true. You can use a local logon to log into windows, windows app store is garbage so why bother? and yes, it's true if you buy office online you do need a windows live account to purchase and activate. However, that is the extent of this.

I have no beef against Cate, but disappointed she says it's necessary.

[Donald G]

I downloaded Windows 10 without an account and have had no trouble.

[TylerM4]

Didn't read the article but can confirm that OP is correct.

Microsoft wants you to create an account with them, so they don't make it super intuitive to login with a local account but it's not what I would call difficult either.

[LoneWolf_53]

I have no beef against Cate, but disappointed she says it's necessary.

She tends to have her own view on some things, I've noted in the past.

I don't agree with everything she says, but she does provide some good tips for people.

[Bsuds]

If you have multiple Windows devices it is advantageous to have an account and sync your settings, contacts, etc.
If you don't then doesn't much matter.

[LoneWolf_53]

If you have multiple Windows devices it is advantageous to have an account and sync your settings, contacts, etc.
If you don't then doesn't much matter.

True. That sums it up quite nicely.