How to Install Windows 11 Without Microsoft Account

When installing Windows 11, Microsoft tries to force you to use a Microsoft Account. This guide shows you how to bypass this requirement and create a traditional local offline account instead.

Prerequisites

• Windows 11 installation USB or media
• PC with internet disconnected (important!)

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Disconnect from Internet

Before starting the installation:

• Disconnect LAN cable (if using Ethernet)
• Don't connect to WiFi during setup

This prevents Windows from detecting internet and forcing you to sign in with a Microsoft Account.

Step 2: Boot from USB

1. Insert your Windows 11 installation USB
2. Boot from the USB drive
3. Follow the initial setup instructions (language, keyboard, region)

Step 3: Open Command Prompt

When you reach the screen asking for an internet connection:

1. Press Shift + F10 to open the command prompt
2. A black console window will appear

Step 4: Execute Bypass Command

In the console window, type the following command and press Enter:

start ms-cxh:localonly

What happens next:

• You will immediately be taken to the local account creation screen
• No restart is required

Step 5: Create Local Account

After executing the command, you'll immediately see the local account setup screen:

1. Enter your desired username
2. Enter a password (or leave blank for no password)
3. Set up security questions if prompted
4. Configure privacy settings
5. Complete the installation

Update History

• Update January 2026: The OOBE\BYPASSNRO command no longer works. Use start ms-cxh:localonly instead.
• This bypass method continues to work reliably across all Windows 11 editions

After Installation

Once Windows is installed with your local account:

• You can connect to the internet normally
• You can add a Microsoft Account later if desired (Settings > Accounts)
• All features work normally with a local account

Troubleshooting

"I don't have internet" option doesn't appear

• Make sure you ran the start ms-cxh:localonly command correctly
• Verify you're completely disconnected from all networks

Command prompt doesn't open

• Ensure you're pressing Shift + F10 (both keys together)
• On some laptops, try Fn + Shift + F10
• Try at different stages of the installation

Computer says "Let's connect you to a network" with no skip option

• This is expected - run the command start ms-cxh:localonly in the command prompt
• Follow Step 3 and Step 4 to execute the bypass

Related Guides

For the most comprehensive guide with Windows 11 Pro 24H2 specifics, see:

• Install Windows 11 Pro 24H2 with offline local account