When I installed Windows 8, I deliberately chose not to use a Microsoft account to sign in. I like to keep things separate, and just logon with a traditional local account. Any apps that require me to sign-in with my Live account, will have to prompt me to sign-in.
Now, I just updated to 8.1, but towards the end of the setup process, I was asked to sign-in with a Microsoft account or create one.
Unlike when installing Windows 8, there didn't seem to be any option to skip that step, or otherwise close the sign-in prompt and continue to my updated Windows installation. At least not that I could find.
This is particular annoying, when setting up computers for friends and family, whom I support. They may not have, or have any interest in getting, a Microsoft account and I'm reluctant to use my own.
I realize I can disconnect my Microsoft account after the fact, but is there really no way to install, or upgrade to, Windows 8.1, without being forced to create a Microsoft account? If there is, how does one go about that?
Best Answer
At the dialog to enter your online account data, click on the button to create a new account,
here you have a new button to use a local account. It may say "Sign in with your existing account" instead of the "Sign in without a Microsoft Account" message/link shown below.