How to Use Windows 11 Without a Microsoft Account: Effective Trick Revealed

During the installation of Windows 11, users are compelled to log in with a Microsoft account. However, it is possible to circumvent this requirement and establish a local account by employing two straightforward commands in the Command Prompt.

Understanding the Trade-offs of Choosing a Local Account

Opting out of a Microsoft account offers certain freedoms, yet it’s essential to weigh the implications of this decision. A local account carries with it several limitations that could affect your user experience.

With a local account, you will forfeit various Microsoft integration features, such as seamless OneDrive backups, cross-device settings synchronization, and the ability to use the Windows Backup app for file and settings restoration during setup.

Another crucial consideration is Device Encryption, particularly for users on Windows 11 Home. When linked to a Microsoft account, Device Encryption is enabled automatically, and recovery keys are stored securely in the cloud. In contrast, a local account does not permit you to turn on Device Encryption unless you switch to a Microsoft account. If required, you can explore VeraCrypt, a free encryption tool compatible with all account types.

Before starting, ensure that your Ethernet connection is unplugged. If Windows detects a live internet connection, it will install updates automatically and prevent the execution of the necessary commands.

Method 1: Evading the Network Requirement

Begin the Windows 11 installation process and navigate through the setup steps, including language selection, time zone, and keyboard layout configuration. When you arrive at the Let’s connect you to a network screen, which mandates an internet connection for updates and signing into a Microsoft account, you’ll need to take action.

Let's connect you to a network screen during Windows 11 setup

Press Shift + F10 simultaneously to launch the Command Prompt. In this window, enter the following command:

OOBE\BYPASSNRO

Hit Enter. Your system will restart, returning to the setup process without altering any installation files. This command modifies a registry setting that enables offline setup.

Windows 11 setup screen with command prompt open

Post-restart, repeat the initial setup steps: select your region and keyboard layout. Upon reaching the Let’s connect you to a network screen again, this time click I don’t have internet located in the screen’s corner.

I don't have internet option on the Windows 11 setup screen

You’ll see a prompt asking if you wish to connect; select Continue with limited setup to proceed offline.

This allows for the creation of a local account. Input your desired username and, if you wish, set a password. Should you create a password, Windows will require you to select three security questions for potential password recovery.

Complete the final setup steps, including privacy settings selection for services such as location access and diagnostic data sharing. Once this is done, you will boot into Windows 11 using your local account.

Method 2: Establishing a Local Account Directly

If the command oobe\bypassnro does not yield results, an alternative exists. Initiate the Windows 11 installation and proceed through language, time zone, and keyboard setups.

When prompted to select your country or region, press Shift + F10 to access Command Prompt once more.

Windows 11 set up screen with an option to select keyboard language

Type the following command into the Command Prompt:

start ms-cxh:localonly

After entering the command, press Enter. This will prompt a dialog titled Create a new user account. Fill in your username and password, then select Next to finalize the establishment of your local user account.

Windows 11 setup screen with keyboard language option and command prompt open

Continue through the final setup stages, adjusting privacy choices related to location services and diagnostic data. Once setup concludes, you’ll access Windows 11 with your local account.

Once you’ve completed the installation using a local account, you have the option to connect to the internet at your convenience. Navigate to Settings > Windows Update for important security updates and driver downloads. Keep in mind that some features, such as the Microsoft Store, still necessitate a Microsoft account for full functionality. Nonetheless, a local account allows access to most core Windows 11 features.

The Settings app in Windows 11 with the Windows Update tab open

If you choose to revisit the idea of a Microsoft account later, you can easily do so. Simply navigate to Settings > Accounts > Your info and click on Sign in with a Microsoft account instead. This action links your local account to a Microsoft account, maintaining your files and installed programs intact.

As of October 2023, these methods remain effective in the latest Windows 11 version (24H2).While Microsoft could potentially eliminate these bypass options in future updates, they currently represent the optimum approach to setting up a local account and avoiding the Microsoft account requirement during installation.

Lastly, ensure that your local account password is securely stored, as recovering it lacks the straightforward safety net available with Microsoft account passwords.

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