Microsoft has once again tightened the screws on users who prefer local accounts over Microsoft accounts during Windows 11 setup. With the release of Windows 11 version 23H2 and the upcoming 24H2, most of the older workarounds no longer function the way they used to. However, there are still effective methods you can use to bypass the Microsoft account requirement—even on the latest Windows builds.
This guide will walk you through updated methods to bypass the Microsoft account requirement during Windows 11 installation, including setups with or without network access.
⚠️ Disclaimer:
This article is for educational purposes only. Modifying the Windows installation process to bypass Microsoft’s intended setup flows may violate Microsoft’s terms of service. Proceed at your own discretion and ensure you comply with local laws and licensing agreements.
Why Microsoft Accounts Are Required
Starting with recent builds of Windows 11 (including 23H2 and 24H2), Microsoft now enforces the use of a Microsoft account during setup, particularly for Home and Pro editions. Previously, users could bypass this by entering a fake email or simply choosing offline options—but these tricks no longer work in most cases.
Method 1: Bypass Using Shift+F10 Command (Without Network)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Disconnect from the Internet
If you’re on a physical machine, unplug your Ethernet cable or disable Wi-Fi. In a virtual machine (like VirtualBox), simply disable the network adapter. - Begin Windows 11 Installation
Start the installation process using your bootable media or virtual machine. Go through the language, keyboard, and region setup screens. - Open Command Prompt
When Windows setup asks you to connect to the internet, pressShift + F10to open Command Prompt. - Run the Bypass Command
In the Command Prompt window, enter:oobe\BypassNROPress Enter. This will reboot the system and restart the setup process with a new option. - Choose “I don’t have internet”
Once setup reloads, you’ll now see an additional option saying “I don’t have internet.” Click it. - Continue with Local Account
You’ll be prompted to create a local account instead of signing into a Microsoft account. Enter your preferred username and password, and complete the setup as normal.
Method 2: Bypass With Internet Connection Enabled
If disconnecting the network isn’t feasible, this second method allows you to bypass the Microsoft account setup while staying connected to the internet.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Install Windows 11 Normally
Begin the setup with your network connected and proceed through the region, keyboard, and update screens. - Choose “Set up for personal use”
Avoid the “Work or school account” option as it configures your PC for a domain. Choose “Set up for personal use.” - Open Command Prompt Again
At the Microsoft account login screen, pressShift + F10again. - Run the Same Bypass Command
oobe\BypassNROHit Enter. This will reboot the system. - Let Setup Load Again
Go through the setup screens as before. When you arrive back at the Microsoft account login screen: - Run IP Release Command
PressShift + F10again and enter:ipconfig /releaseThis command simulates disconnecting your network by releasing the system’s IP address. - Click “Sign in”
When you click the sign-in button after releasing the IP, Windows will default to asking you for a local account instead of a Microsoft account. - Finish Setup
Enter your local username and password, and complete the rest of the setup.
Final Steps After Setup
After completing setup, you may still receive nagging prompts from Windows asking you to connect a Microsoft account. Here’s how to stop them:
- Go to Settings → System → Notifications
- Scroll down to “Additional Settings”.
- Uncheck:
- “Suggest ways to get the most out of Windows”
- “Offer suggestions on how I can set up my device”
- “Finish setting up my device”
You can also disable all notifications completely if you prefer.
Confirming Setup
To confirm you’re running Windows 11 with a local account:
- Go to:
Settings → System → About - Confirm the build number (e.g., 24H2)
- Go to:
Settings → Accounts - Ensure the account type is listed as Local Account
What If This No Longer Works?
If Microsoft patches these workarounds in future builds:
- Install an older version like 22H2, where older bypasses still work.
- Use that to bypass the Microsoft account.
- Then upgrade to 24H2 or newer—a Microsoft account is not required for upgrading, only for fresh installs.
Bonus Tip for S Mode Devices
If your device ships with Windows 11 S Mode, you cannot access Command Prompt via Shift+F10 during setup. In that case:
- Download and clean-install Windows 11 22H2 from ISO.
- Use previous workarounds that still support local account creation.
- Disable S Mode after setup (see relevant guides).
Conclusion
Microsoft may be tightening control over Windows setup, but as of now, these updated workarounds still allow you to create a local account without signing into a Microsoft account—even on the latest 24H2 builds. By following either method outlined above, you can keep your setup private and under your control.
Related Software:
- Oracle VirtualBox (Used for virtual machines in this guide)
Tags:
Windows 11, Microsoft account bypass, local account, Windows 11 setup, Windows 24H2, Windows installation, bypass Microsoft login, shift+F10 trick, Windows local user, IP release command, VirtualBox, S Mode Windows, Windows 11 Pro, Windows 11 Home
Hashtags:
#Windows11 #LocalAccount #MicrosoftBypass #Windows11Setup #Privacy #TechTips #WindowsTricks #NoMicrosoftAccount #Windows24H2 #VirtualBox #SMODE #CommandPrompt #BypassNRO
