Windows account takeover

Question

Hey there. I want to download an app from the windows store, but if I sign in I'm worried the Windows account will take over my computer. I prefer to use a local account for my computer. Can anyone confirm that logging in to the store will not cause Microsoft to take over?

Thanks!

Answer 1

You're a little over the top in your concern, but not totally without justification. Microsoft wants everybody to use a Microsoft account, so they think up lots of ways to persuade or simply trick you into using a Microsoft account instead of a local account.

But you don't have to worry. I also use a local account and have no trouble downloading from Windows Store.

Understand that everyone needs to have a Microsoft account, but you never need to use your Microsoft account, unless you want to. By that I mean that you never have to sign in to your Windows PC with your Microsoft account, unless you want to. You can use a local account if that's what you want to do.

You need to have a Microsoft account because you'll need your Microsoft account's username and password to take advantage of virtually all of Microsoft's online services, like OneDrive, Outlook.com, Xbox ... and Windows Store.

When you open Windows Store from your local account you will, most likely, be 'encouraged' to convert your local account to a Microsoft account. But you can refuse. In that case you'll be asked for your Microsoft account username and password. Once you've entered them, Windows Store is yours and you've still got a local account.

Answer 2

Hi Canoli. I'm Greg, an installation specialist and 9 year Windows MVP, here to help you.

Follow the steps here to see if it still gives the prompt to "Sign into this app only." https://betanews.com/2015/08/03/you-dont-need-t...

If not then your choices are to let it change to a MS Account, then change back in Settings > Accounts > Your Info at link to "Sign in with Local Account" or create a secondary MSFT account for these purposes. https://askleo.com/how-do-i-switch-back-to-a-lo...

I hope this helps. Feel free to ask back any questions and let us know how it goes. I will keep working with you until it's resolved.

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