Even though Microsoft prompts users to sign in with a Microsoft account during the Windows 10 setup process, for better privacy and simplicity you can still opt for using a local account. This guide will walk you through the steps to set up Windows 10 with a local account during the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE).
Why Use a Local Account? 
A local account offers:
- Privacy: Microsoft’s servers do not have any data in their system.
- Offline Access: Just the device itself is a suitable credential, no internet connection is necessary.
- Simplicity: Users who don’t require cloud-based features will find this the best option.
How to Set Up a Local Account on Windows 10 Pro 
Step 1: Start the Setup Process
- Click Yes after selecting your region.
- Click Yes after you chose your keyboard layout.
- You can click Skip to get rid of the network connection step (optional). Or you can skip this step to keep off from the network connection.
Step 2: Choose Account Type
- Select “Set up for personal use” and then press the Next button.
- Click “Offline account” at the bottom left corner.
- Click “Limited experience” to move ahead with a local account.
Step 3: Create a Local Account
- Enter your username for a local account.
- Enter a password and confirm it.
- Select three security questions for password recovery.
Step 4: Configure Privacy Settings
- Review your privacy settings and rearrange if you wish to meet your needs.
- Press Accept to proceed.
Step 5: Complete the Setup
- (Optional) Customize your experience or click Skip.
- Not now is the correct button; the Cortana setup section will be skipped when you click it.
How to Set Up a Local Account on Windows 10 Home 
Step 1: Start the Setup Process
- Choose your area, and then confirm by clicking Yes.
- Choose your keyboard layout and click Yes.
- Click Skip to neglect the network connection step.
Step 2: Disconnect from the Internet
- Turn off your device from Wi-Fi or Ethernet first.
- Press the back button located in the top-left corner and the account setup screen shows up again.
Step 3: Create a Local Account
- Enter your username for a local account.
- Create a password and confirm it.
- Set up three security questions for password recovery.
Step 4: Configure Privacy Settings
- Review and modify your privacy settings.
- Click Accept to continue.
Step 5: Complete the Setup
- (Optional) Customize your experience or click Skip.
- Click Not now to avoid Cortana setup.
- Get back online after the setup is done.
Final Thoughts 
Online privacy and the use of offline Windows 10 is beneficial only for the individuals who look for the feature of the device being used outside of internet access. When it comes to your cloud-based features, you might have such limited access, however, the process is so simple and clean that you can be sure your data is in your hands.
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FAQs About Setting Up a Local Account 
1. Can I switch from a Microsoft account to a local account later?
Yes, you can switch to a local account after the setup is done:
Go to Settings > Accounts > Your info.
Click “Sign in with a local account instead”.
2. What are the limitations of a local account?
OneDrive, Microsoft Store, and email sync are not being offered.
Find My Device or remote password recovery, which can be obtained from a local account, are not the ones missing.
3. Can I use Cortana with a local account?
No, Cortana needs a Microsoft account if you want it to function entirely for you.
4. How do I reset my local account password?
Remember the security questions you answered when creating your account.
5. Is a local account more secure?
A local account is more privacy-focused yet is not very secure as it lacks 2FA similar to the Microsoft account.