Installing Windows 11 Without Internet Becomes More Difficult, But Still Feasible

Installing Windows 11 Without Internet Becomes More Difficult, But Still Feasible

Windows 11 Updates Tighten Account and Internet Connection Requirements

Recent updates to Windows 11 have introduced a range of new features; however, one change has not been well-received by enthusiasts. Microsoft has long been known for its requirement that users connect to the internet and create a Microsoft Account during the installation process. For the past three years, users have found a way to bypass this requirement by using a command in the Command Prompt. Unfortunately, in the latest builds, it appears Microsoft is putting an end to this workaround.

Removal of the Bypass Script

In the latest Windows 11 builds, specifically versions 26200.5516 and 26120.3653, the command script known as bypassnro.cmd has been removed. Microsoft states that this alteration is intended to guarantee that “all users exit setup with internet connectivity and a Microsoft Account.” Essentially, the company emphasizes its preference for users to set up an account before using the operating system.

Error Message Confirmation

Users attempting to execute the previously successful bypassnro command in the new builds are now greeted with a message indicating that the command is not recognized:

‘oobe\bypassnro’ is not recognized as an internal or external command, operable program or batch file.

A Temporary Solution

Despite this setback, all is not lost for those looking to set up Windows 11 without an active internet connection or a Microsoft account. Tech enthusiasts have figured out how to restore the bypass script with the following steps:

  1. On the Windows 11 setup screen, press Shift + F10 to open the Command Prompt, then type regedit and hit Enter.
  2. Navigate to Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\OOBE.
  3. Select Edit > New > DWORD (32-bit), and rename this new value to BypassNRO.
  4. Double-click on the new entry and set its value to 1.
  5. Restart your system; you should now be able to proceed with the installation without internet access or a Microsoft account.

Community Feedback and Future Implications

While the OOBE\bypassnro command has been a popular method for skipping some installation prerequisites in Windows 11, its removal may lead to frustration for many users. Thankfully, the temporary solution allows enthusiasts to regain this functionality. However, it remains uncertain how long this method will continue to work as Microsoft evolves its operating system.

For the latest updates and insights, check the source details from @phantomofearth on X, as well as more coverage on Neowin.

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