Microsoft login not needed on Windows

Q: I am setting up my new Microsoft Surface Pro and it is asking me for a Microsoft account. Is there a way around this?

A: While there may be benefits to using this account for your Windows computer, it is not necessarily something everyone wants to do.

To bypass this setup option, make sure the computer is not connected to the internet. If you go through the entire setup process without network connectivity, Windows will allow you to create a local user account. You can then connect to your network after the initial setup. If you are interested in the pros and cons of using a Microsoft account with your Windows PC, check out the Digital Citizen article at tinyurl.com/helplineonlineoffline.

Q: My work printer requires departmental authorization codes. I have my primary code configured, but sometimes have to print things for another department and need to use a different code. Can I make the printer prompt me rather than having to change the code?

A: To change how you authenticate to the printer, click on the Start or Search menu and type “Printers.” When you see Printers & Scanners pop up, click it.

Locate the printer you want to change and click it and then select Manage. In the next window, click on Printing Properties and then select the Settings tab on the far right.

Now click on Authentication Settings

Place a check in the box that says “Popup Authentication Dialog when printing”

Click OK then OK again can go ahead and close out the Printer Settings window.

Now when you print to that printer you will be prompted for the code and can enter the one that’s appropriate for the organization.