Windows 11: Install Windows 11 Without a Microsoft Account

More Tips & Tricks

Installing Windows 11 typically requires a Microsoft account, but there are ways to bypass this requirement and set up your system with a local account instead. Whether you prefer not to use a Microsoft account for privacy reasons or simply want a straightforward offline setup, this guide will show you how to install Windows 11 without a Microsoft account.

Follow our step-by-step instructions to complete the installation process and create a local account for your new Windows 11 system.


Pre-Requisites

  • Windows 11 downloadable file in a drive or download it online.
  • Turn off Wi-Fi/router to disable internet connection.

How to Install Windows 11?

First, execute the downloaded file from the system to run Windows 11. This will reboot your existing system and start from the introduction page.

If you’ve installed a Windows system earlier, all these procedures will be similar such as asking the country you’re residing in reason for use and so on.

Follow all the steps until it gives you a prompt to enter your Microsoft account.

Now there are multiple ways to bypass this page. Let’s go through some of them.

  1. Disabling all networks using the task manager.
  2. Override login using Command Prompt.
  3. Disable networks using Out of the Box Experience (OOBE).
  4. Overwhelm the Microsoft Sign-in page by adding a specific ID.

Note: The router/ethernet cable must be disconnected. This will prompt Windows to force you to get an internet connection. After that, a page will open which will enable you to sign in offline and select “Limited Experience”.

Let’s see all these methods in detail.


Method 1: Using Task Manager

Once you see the login page of the Microsoft Account, immediately press the “Shift+F10” keys. This will open the command prompt. In the command prompt, type the command:

taskmgr

This will open the Task Manager. Go to the background applications and end the “Network Connection Flow” task. This will make Microsoft bypass the login screen which enables you to continue logging in with a local account.


Method 2: Override login using Command Prompt

Similarly, follow all the steps till the login page, then cut the network connection. This will make Microsoft connect you with a network on a separate page.

In the network login page, open the command prompt by pressing “Shift+F10” and typing out the following command:

taskkill /F /IM oobenetworkconnectionflow.exe

This will bypass the network login page. After that, you can continue on logging it in with a local account.


Method 3: Using OOBE command

Similar to the above ways, follow the above steps till you get the “Let’s connect you to a network” page. In that, press “Shift+F10” to open the command prompt and type in the command:

OOBE\BYPASSNRO

The above command is a registry key which means that OOBE (Out of the box Experience) does not require an internet connection.

After typing out the command, the system reboots and, after that, follow the procedure to create your local account in Windows 11.


Method 4: Using a specific ID name

Once you get to the Sign-in page for the Microsoft account, in the prompt area, type “**@******ou.com“>**@******ou.com”. This will force Microsoft to progress and you creating your local account for your Windows 11 system.

These are the well-known ways to set up windows 11 without microsoft account.

Conclusion

Installing Windows 11 without a Microsoft account is a straightforward process that allows you to maintain privacy and control over your personal data. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily set up a local account and enjoy all the features of Windows 11 without needing to connect to a Microsoft account. This approach is ideal for users who prefer an offline setup or want to minimize their digital footprint.


Installing Windows 11 Without a Microsoft Account – FAQs

Why would I want to install Windows 11 without a Microsoft account?

Installing Windows 11 without a Microsoft account can enhance your privacy, allow you to control personal data, and enable an offline setup.

How can I bypass the Microsoft account requirement during Windows 11 installation?

During the installation process, choose the “Sign-in options” or “Offline account” option, and follow the prompts to set up a local account. Detailed steps are provided in the guide.

Is it safe to install Windows 11 without a Microsoft account?

Yes, it is safe to install Windows 11 without a Microsoft account. You will still receive updates and can use local accounts to manage your system.

How do I create a local account during Windows 11 setup?

During the setup process, select “Set up for personal use” and then choose “Offline account” or “Limited experience” to create a local account. Follow the prompts to complete the setup.

What are the limitations of using a local account in Windows 11?

The main limitations include the lack of cloud-based features such as OneDrive, Microsoft Store purchases, and cross-device sync. However, these features can be accessed by signing in with a Microsoft account later if needed.

How to switch between my Local Account and Microsoft Account?

To Switch between my Local Account and Microsoft Account

  • Go to “Settings
  • Click on “Accounts
  • Choose “Your info
  • Click “Sign in with a Microsoft account” to switch to a Microsoft account.
  • Click “Sign in with a local account” to switch to a local account.

Is it free to make a Microsoft account?

Yes, it’s free to create a Microsoft account. Go to the “Microsoft Outlook” website and select “Create free account”. Also You can sign up for one on the Microsoft website without any cost.

More Tips & Tricks

DistroSea.com site image
Check out different Linux distros in your web browser with nothing to download at DistroSea.com
Quick Ref Site image
Here are some cheatsheets and quick references from QuickRef.ME.
edX Site image
Learn Linux from MIT for FREE edX.
Linux Basics YouTube Series Site image
Linux Basics YouTube Series
Watch the Series.
“Linux Command Line Tutorial For Beginners" will teach you everything you need to know about Linux Command Line in easy-to-understand language.
Watch the Series.