Microsoft’s Stance on BYPASSNRO Workaround for Windows 11 Installation
This week, Microsoft reiterated its commitment to discouraging the BYPASSNRO workaround, which allows users to bypass the internet and Microsoft Account verification steps during the Out-Of-Box Experience (OOBE) of Windows 11 installation. Fortunately, users can still create a workaround utilizing Registry edits.
Microsoft’s Rationale for Microsoft Account Use
Microsoft promotes the use of Microsoft Accounts over local accounts for various reasons, which it elaborated on in detail back in 2024. The company emphasizes that linking a Microsoft Account enhances the overall user experience by enabling features like OneDrive storage, synchronized settings, and access to the Microsoft Store.
Emergence of Alternative Bypass Methods
In response to Microsoft’s changes, tech enthusiasts have been seeking alternative solutions. Interestingly, a new method has gained traction, complementing the existing workarounds.
The
WinJS-Microsoft-Account-BypassGitHub repository provides a technique to circumvent the Microsoft Account requirement during Windows 11 OOBE. By utilizing the Developer Console, users can unveil a hidden local account setup screen. This offline approach is compatible with all versions of Windows 11, including S-Mode, thus allowing for the creation of a local account.
Using the WinJS-Microsoft-Account-Bypass
The bypass method employs a CXH (cloud experience host) URI (Uniform Resource Identifier) string during the OOBE, which activates the concealed local account setup screen. Below is a step-by-step guide:
1. Begin the Windows 11 Setup
- Initiate the Windows 11 installation process.
- Select your preferred region and keyboard layout.
2. Pause at the Secondary Keyboard Layout Screen
- Do not click Skip when you arrive at the Secondary Keyboard Layout screen.
- If you accidentally skipped ahead, don’t worry! Guidance is available in the troubleshooting section.
3. Access the Developer Console
- Press Ctrl + Shift + J to launch the Developer Console.
- Your screen will dim, displaying a prompt (indicated by a > symbol) at the upper-left corner.
4. Input the Restart Command
- Type in the following command precisely:
WinJS. Application.restart("ms-cxh://LOCALONLY")- As you type
WinJS. A, press Tab to auto-completeApplication.- After entering
res, again use Tab to auto-completerestart.5. Exit the Developer Console
- Execute the command by pressing Enter.
- Press Escape to exit the Developer Console and return to the OOBE interface.
6. Local Account Configuration
- The Secondary Keyboard Layout screen will refresh, leading to a familiar Windows 10-style local account setup prompt.
- Fill in your preferred username, password, and security questions, then click Next.
7. Finalize the Setup
- The setup may momentarily turn black as Windows 11 logs you into the newly created account. Wait for a few moments as the system configures your user.
- Proceed through the ensuing privacy settings prompts.
- Upon completion, a local account will have been successfully established in Windows 11.
Important Note: If the Escape key does not close the console, click anywhere on the screen to ensure focus is activated on the console, then try pressing the key again.
Note: This command is case-sensitive. Utilize Tab-completion for convenience.
Additional Resources
A video tutorial accompanying this method is available, but it’s advisable to lower the volume before viewing:
You can find the project on its GitHub repository.
Special thanks to d5aqoëp for their helpful tip!
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