I actually just did the change of address a few days ago, my wife and I both have online accounts, but for my profile, it said something along the lines of "Cannot change mailing or physical address at this point of the adjudication" or something like that. So I submitted that AR-11 online (it states not to submit the AR-11 if you have an online account and to do it there instead, but since I wasn't able to from my account, I resorted to this method.) I got an email the next day saying the change was processed and my online account now shows the new address as well.
But to answer your 2nd question, I don't think an online account is necessary, they will continue to process your case with or without one. I believe these accounts are just for your convenience.