To bypass the Microsoft sign-in during Windows 11 setup and create a local account, the method you use depends on the specific version (build) of Windows 11 you are installing.
Method 1: Using the ms-cxh:localonly command (for newer builds)
This is the most current and reliable method for recent Windows 11 builds (as of late 2025).
- Proceed with the Windows 11 installation until you reach the Microsoft account sign-in screen.
- Press Shift + F10 (you may need to press Shift + Fn + F10 on some laptops) to open the Command Prompt window.
- In the Command Prompt, type the following command exactly:
start ms-cxh:localonly - Press Enter. A new window will appear allowing you to create a local account by entering a username and optional password.
- Follow the rest of the prompts to complete the Windows 11 setup with your new local account.
Method 2: Using the OOBE\BYPASSNRO command (for older builds)
If Method 1 doesn’t work, this alternative method forces the system to skip the network requirement, allowing for a local setup.
- Proceed with the installation until you reach the “Let’s connect you to a network” screen.
- Press Shift + F10 to open the Command Prompt.
- Type the following command exactly:
OOBE\BYPASSNRO - Press Enter. The computer will restart automatically and loop back to the setup’s region selection screen.
- Continue through the setup. When you return to the “Let’s connect you to a network” screen, an option to “I don’t have internet” or “Continue with limited setup” will now be available. Select that option.
- Proceed with creating a local account as prompted to finish the installation.
Alternative Method: Modify the installation media
For a cleaner process, advanced users can use a third-party tool like Rufus to create a bootable USB drive that automatically removes the online account requirement and other constraints during the installation process.