Just close the sign-in window and look for another free app in the Store.Ĭlosing the Sign in to Microsoft account popup If Microsoft Store asks you to sign in with your Microsoft account, as seen in the screenshot below, you are out of luck. Installing an app from the Microsoft Store without signing in with a Microsoft account So cross your fingers and click or tap on the blue button. The only way to check if you can download it is by pressing the Get button. For example, WhatsApp Desktop can be downloaded without issues, while the Netflix app requires a Microsoft account.

Now comes the kicker: some free apps require a Microsoft account, while some don’t. If that app is free, on its page, you should see a button named Get. TIP: If you’d like to know more about local accounts in Windows, here’s an article on how to install and use Windows 11 with a local account and another one explaining how to switch to a Windows 11 local account from a Microsoft one.

If you're going to reinstall Windows, any apps or games that you also reinstall are going to be reset, as they do not sync content, settings, or achievements.

You can only download and install some free apps and games and none of the paid ones.

However, there are two caveats about using the Microsoft Store with a local account: That's great news for everyone who doesn't want to use the cloud and syncing features that come with signing into a Microsoft account. If you're running Windows 11 or Windows 10, you can download and install some of the apps from the Microsoft Store by using a local account. The Microsoft Store from Windows offers one of the easiest ways to find, download, and install apps on our devices. Can I use the Microsoft Store with just a local account (no Microsoft account whatsoever)?

The screenshots are from Windows 11, but they apply to both operating systems unless stated otherwise.

NOTE: This guide applies to both Windows 11 and Windows 10.

Are you using the Microsoft Store without a Microsoft account?.

How to use the Microsoft Store without a Microsoft account.

Can I use the Microsoft Store with just a local account (no Microsoft account whatsoever)?.

Windows 11 install free