Windows 11 Pro users will soon need a Microsoft Account and internet to set up their device
As Microsoft notes, Windows 11 Home already requires users to be connected to the internet and have a Microsoft account in order to go through the initial setup. However, late last year we reported that there is a workaround which can allow users to setup their Windows 11 Home devices without internet connection. It will be interesting to see if the workaround will work for Windows 11 Pro devices as well.
As for the change, there is no clear indication as to why Microsoft decided to impose this on Windows users. It may be frustrating, especially for those who don't want to connect their Windows device to a Microsoft account or don't have an internet connection available at the time of the setup. Finally, the company has also noted that a Microsoft account will also be required in the future Windows Insider flights.
Windows 11 Pro users will soon need a Microsoft Account and internet to set up their device
Neowin published a story that Windows 11 Pro users will soon need a Microsoft Account and internet when setting up their device for the first time.