How to install Windows 11 without a Microsoft account

When it comes to Windows 11, one question always seems to come up: "Can I install Windows 11 with a local account like I have done in previous versions of Windows?" The answer is yes, you can, and I am going to show you how to install Windows 11 without a Microsoft account.

When it comes to installing Windows 11 without a Microsoft account, the process is relatively straightforward. However, there are a couple things you have to due during the installation to be able to create a local user account.

First and foremost, it's important to note that Microsoft strongly encourages users to sign in with a Microsoft account. While this provides access to additional features and seamless integration with Microsoft services, it is not mandatory.

Keep in mind that most Windows 11 systems come with Bitlocker drive encryption enabled and using a Microsoft account to login will place the Bitlocker decryption key inside of your Microsoft account online. If you like, you can always turn off Bitlocker after the installation is complete.

Now, the stage in the installation of Windows 11 that you need to make changes is called the Out-Of-Box-Experience (OOBE). This is when Windows 11 prepares for the first use. So, you can use this procedure on brand-new Windows 11 systems or clean installations of Windows 11.

This process will usually work flawlessly, but I have had issues with new computers that have Windows 11 in S mode. For more information about performing a clean installation of Windows 11, follow the link below.

How to perform a clean installation of Windows 11

As I mentioned before, the stage in the Windows 11 installation we need to modify is the OOBE. The one thing you will need to do is make sure you do not have an ethernet cable plugged into your computer.

Your computer cannot access the Internet until after you create the local user account. If Windows 11 detects Internet access, it will not allow you to bypass the network requirement, which is what you have to do to finish the installation using a local user account.

When you start your new Windows 11 computer for the first time or finalize a clean installation of Windows 11, the first screen that appears in the OOBE is the Is this the right country or region screen.

This is where we need to modify the OOBE.

Using your keyboard, press Shift + F10. If your laptop has an FN (Function) button, you may have to also hold it down to toggle the F10 key.

This will bring up an Administrative Command Prompt.

In the Command Prompt type:

OOBE\BYPASSNRO

and then press enter.

This will restart the OOBE stage again using the BYPASSNRO (BYPASS Network Requirement Option) switch. You will now have the ability to skip using a Microsoft account to logon. Once the OOBE stage restarts, you return to the first screen (country and region).

Proceed through the screens until you reach the Let's connect you to a network screen.

Left-click on the I don't have internet link at the bottom of the screen.

The next screen is the Connect now to quickly get started on your device screen.

Left-click on the Continue with limited setup link. The next screen is the Who's going to use this device screen. Enter a name and left-click on the Next button.

Now you come to the Create a super memorable password screen. If you leave the password blank/empty and left-click on the Next button, your computer will automatically log in to your desktop. This is how to create a local user with no password.

In conclusion, installing Windows 11 without a Microsoft account is entirely feasible and allows users to maintain a local account on their system. Following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully set up Windows 11 without needing a Microsoft account, giving you more control over your operating system.