How to Install Windows 11 Without Signing in to Your Microsoft Account

Tired of being forced into using a Microsoft account during Windows 11 setup? You’re not alone. Whether you value privacy, prefer a local account, or simply want to skip the extra steps, you can install Windows 11 without ever signing in to Microsoft’s servers. Follow this straightforward guide to breeze through setup with a local account instead.

Why Use a Local Account?

• Privacy First: Keep your personal data off Microsoft’s cloud.
• Simplified Setup: No need to remember or verify an email address.
• Offline Install: Perfect for air-gapped or dedicated kiosk systems.

What You’ll Need

1. A Windows 11 ISO (download via Microsoft’s website).
2. A bootable USB drive (use tools like Rufus or the Windows Media Creation Tool).
3. A PC that meets Windows 11’s system requirements.

Method 1: The Built-In “Limited Setup” (Pro & Enterprise)

1. Boot from Your USB Drive
   Insert your bootable USB, restart your PC, and enter the boot menu (usually F12, Esc, or Del).
2. Proceed Through Initial Screens
   Select your language, keyboard layout, and click Next.
3. Get Rid of the Internet Requirement
   • When you reach the “Let’s connect you to a network” screen, disconnect your Ethernet cable or turn off your Wi-Fi router.
   • Click I don’t have internet.
   • At the prompt, choose Continue with limited setup.
4. Create Your Local Account
   • Enter your desired username.
   • (Optional) Add a password and security questions.
   • Click Next, and Windows will proceed without ever asking for an email.
5. Finish Installation
   Follow the remaining on-screen prompts to configure privacy settings, and voilà—you’re in.

Method 2: OOBE Bypass for Home Edition

Windows 11 Home forces an online account by default. Here’s the registry hack workaround:

1. Boot & Reach OOBE
   Start setup until you see “Let’s connect you to a network”.
2. Open Command Prompt
   Press Shift + F10 to launch the command prompt.
3. Create the Bypass Key
   Copy and paste each line, hitting Enter after each: reg add HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\OOBE /f /v BypassNRO /t REG_DWORD /d 1 exit
4. Restart OOBE
   • Close the command prompt.
   • Click the back arrow until you return to the network page.
   • You’ll now see the “I don’t have internet” option—select it.
   • Choose Continue with limited setup.
5. Set Up Your Local Account
   • Provide a username and optional password.
   • Complete the rest of the setup as usual.

Tips & Troubleshooting

• No “I don’t have internet” Button?
  Double-check that your PC is truly offline. For Wi-Fi, remove saved networks beforehand.
• Registry Hack Not Working?
  Ensure you ran Shift + F10 at the right OOBE screen and that you typed the key name exactly (BypassNRO).
• Forgot Your Local Password?
  You can reset it using a Windows recovery USB or by enabling the built-in Administrator account temporarily.

Wrapping Up

Installing Windows 11 without a Microsoft account gives you control over your data and simplifies the initial setup. Whether you’re on the Pro edition or stuck with Home’s online requirements, these methods have got you covered. Enjoy a clean, local-only Windows 11 experience!

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Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!