Windows 11 Local Account

How to Install Windows 11 Without a Microsoft Account

Windows 11 has brought a host of new features and design changes, but one of the most frustrating requirements for many users is the forced Microsoft account login during setup. While using a Microsoft account has its benefits, some users prefer a local account for privacy, control, or simplicity.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to bypass the Microsoft account requirement during Windows 11 setup using the Shift + F10 method. This method works on the Home edition, where Microsoft has made it difficult to use a local account during setup.

Why Would You Want a Local Account?

A local account allows you to use your PC without linking it to Microsoft’s cloud services. Here are some reasons you might prefer this approach:

Privacy: Your data stays local and isn’t synced with Microsoft’s servers.
No Internet Requirement: You don’t need an active internet connection to sign in.
Reduced Tracking: Microsoft accounts can collect data on your activity, which some users prefer to avoid.
Easier User Management: Especially useful in environments where multiple people use the same PC without needing Microsoft profiles.

With that in mind, let’s get started on how to install Windows 11 without signing into a Microsoft account.

Step-by-Step Guide to Bypassing Microsoft Account Requirement

Step 1: Start the Windows 11 Installation

Create a Bootable USB Drive:
- Download the Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft’s official website.
- Use Rufus or the Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB drive.
- Insert the USB drive into your PC and boot from it.
Begin Installation:
- Select your language and region settings.
- Click Next, then choose Install Now.
- Enter a valid product key or choose I don’t have a product key.
- Select the Windows 11 edition you want to install.
- Agree to the license terms and continue with the installation process.

Step 2: Bypass the Microsoft Account Login

Once the installation reaches the “Let’s connect you to a network” screen, follow these steps:

Open the Command Prompt:
- Press Shift + F10 on your keyboard. This will open a command prompt window.
Run the Local Account Command:
- Type the following command and press Enter:
```
start ms-cxh:localonly
```
- This command forces Windows to allow the creation of a local account instead of requiring a Microsoft account.
Continue Setup:
- The setup will now prompt you to create a local user account.
- Enter your preferred username and password.
- Complete the rest of the setup as usual.

Step 3: Finishing the Installation

Once the installation is complete, you can now log into Windows 11 with your local account.
If you’re connected to the internet, Windows may still try to push a Microsoft account, but you can switch back to a local account through Settings > Accounts > Your Info.

Alternative Methods for Windows 11 Pro Users

If you are installing Windows 11 Pro, there is another, easier method:

On the Microsoft account screen, enter no@thankyou.com as the email address and any random password. It will fail, and then allow you to create a local account.
Alternatively, you can use “OOBE\BYPASSNRO” as a command in Shift + F10 to bypass the network requirement entirely.

Final Thoughts

Microsoft wants users to sign in with an account for synchronization and cloud-based features, but it’s not always necessary or desirable. By using the Shift + F10 method and running the start ms-cxh:localonly command, you can easily set up Windows 11 without linking it to a Microsoft account.

This method is particularly useful for privacy-conscious users or those who prefer a simple local login. While Microsoft might try to close this loophole in future updates, for now, this remains a reliable way to bypass the requirement.

Would you prefer a local account, or do you use a Microsoft account for convenience? Let us know your thoughts!