Install Windows 11 Without a Microsoft Account

When installing Windows 11, Microsoft mandates an internet connection and a Microsoft Account during the OOBE (Out Of Box Experience). This guide explains how to bypass this requirement and create a traditional local offline account.

Step 1: Start Installation

Proceed with the standard Windows 11 installation until you reach the "Let's connect you to a network" screen.

If you are already connected via Ethernet, unplug the cable now.

Step 2: Open Command Prompt

On the "Let's connect you to a network" screen (or earlier in the setup):

1. Press Shift + F10 on your keyboard.
2. A command prompt window (cmd.exe) will appear.

Step 3: Execute Bypass Command

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

start ms-cxh:localonly

This will immediately take you to the local account creation screen without requiring a restart.

Step 4: Create Local Account

1. Navigate through the initial setup screens again (Region, Keyboard).
2. When you reach the "Let's connect you to a network" screen again, you will now see a new option: "I don't have internet" (usually at the bottom next to the Next button).
3. Click "I don't have internet".
4. On the next screen, click "Continue with limited setup".
5. You can now enter a local username and password to create your offline account.

Additional Notes

• Update April 2023: This method works on Windows 11 PRO 22H2 and later versions.
• Update January 2026: The OOBE\BYPASSNRO command no longer works. Use start ms-cxh:localonly instead.
• Once the local account is created, you can connect to the internet normally.
• For the latest version (24H2), see the comprehensive guide: Install Windows 11 Pro 24H2 with offline local account

Troubleshooting

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

• Make sure you executed the start ms-cxh:localonly command correctly.
• Ensure you're disconnected from all networks (unplug Ethernet, disable WiFi adapters).
• Try running the command at an earlier stage of the installation.

Command prompt won't open

• Make sure you're pressing Shift + F10 (not just F10).
• Try pressing the keys multiple times.
• On some laptops, you may need to press Fn + Shift + F10.