For Windows 11, Microsoft would like users to sign up for their devices using the Microsoft account, as it provides advantages, such as greater integration with cloud-based services (such as OneDrive or Office) and the ability to synchronize content between computers and improved security.
While there are advantages to using the online option, most people prefer the conventional experience of the local accounts. Microsoft is making it more difficult to install Windows 11 without a Microsoft account. The software manufacturer has removed the option in the initial configuration of the Home edition, as well as removing it in the Pro configuration.
But, regardless of whether you’re using either the Home or Pro version of Windows 11, you have some alternatives (via Reddit) to set up an installation that uses an account on your local computer instead of an online one.
In this how-to guide, I’ll guide you through how to set up a fresh installation for Windows 11 without a Microsoft account.
The advantages and drawbacks of having the Microsoft account Microsoft account
A few users prefer the Microsoft account because it can provide some advantages. This is the most comprehensive list of Windows options that need an account with a Microsoft account. You can also gain from it:
Windows Settings are synced across the entire range of Windows devices, provided it is set to sync. It is a compelling feature because it helps keep the entire set of Windows devices in sync and extends the Microsoft Edge web browser, too.
Microsoft Store requires a Microsoft account to download and install games, applications, and media.
OneDrive cloud storage is accessible only when you have a Microsoft Account is used.
Other Microsoft applications, like Microsoft To-Do, need the creation of an account to use them.
Remote password recovery assistance.
Other security options, for example, 2-factor authentication or password-less logins.
It is possible to read Shaun’s post about Windows capabilities, which require using a Microsoft account.
Some may use local accounts since they disclose little information to Microsoft and do not allow hacking even if your device isn’t switched on. Technicians in the field may also have to set up accounts for clients who are not accessible or can create a Microsoft account at the moment.
These are the significant benefits that a local account can provide:
Better privacy as less personal information is sent to Microsoft or automatically submitted using the operating system.
Microsoft accounts can be compromised remotely, whereas local accounts can be hacked and can be accessed only when a Windows device is off and is connected to the Internet.
How to Install Windows 11 Without a Microsoft Account
A simple method for creating a local account is by releasing an instruction to prevent Windows from having to use the Internet to be installed and shutting off the Internet at the exact time while setting up. But, it is also possible to create your installation disk with Rufus to eliminate the requirement to log in, and this is a procedure we will explain on this page.
If you’ve previously installed and made the Windows 11 boot disk with Rufus or other software, you can follow these steps to create a Windows 11 boot disk without having an account with a Microsoft account.
1. You must follow through the Windows 11 install process until you arrive at your “choose a country” screen.
It’s time to shut off access to the Internet. Before you can do this, you must issue a command to stop Windows 11 from forcing you to use access to an Internet connection.
2. Hit Shift + F10. A prompt for commands appears.
3. Enter OOBEBYPASSNRO to deactivate the Internet connection.
The computer will restart and then return to this screen.
4. Use Shift + 10 again and type this time Ipconfig/release. Hit Enter to deactivate the Internet.
5. Shut down the prompt for command.
6. Proceed with the installation process by selecting the area. Keyboard and the second option.
A display that says “Let’s connect you to a network” will warn you to connect to the Internet.
7. click “I don’t have Internet” for more information.
A login screen is displayed with the question, “Who’s going to use this device?”
8. Select a username on the local account, then click Next.
9. Select a password you’d want to use, and select Next. It is also possible to keep this empty and not have a password. However, it is not advised.
10. Continue the installation procedure as you would normally.
Forget Windows 11 Microsoft Account via Taskmgr Commands
Taskmgr can assist you in opening Task Manager so that you can stop the Network collection flow and get around Microsoft accounts for Windows 11 Home edition.
Step 1: Launch the computer, then go through the steps to set up the keyboard and country settings.
Step 2: Once it requests you connect to the Internet, press shift + F10 on your keyboard to access the Command Prompt.
3. Execute the command taskmgr: launch Task Manager.
Step 4: Click More Info in Windows to see the details of the running processes on your PC.
Step 5: Click to locate and then select Network Connection Flow. Once you have that done, press the end task on the right side.
Step 6: Stop the Task Manager and Command Prompt. After that, you can navigate back to the Windows 11 setup page. You will be asked to use the local account to sign into this machine. Then, you can follow the wizard for setting up Windows 11 with a local account.
How to Remove a Microsoft Account From Windows 11
If you’ve paired your system using a Microsoft account, you’ll need to initially create a local account to delete the Microsoft account that is associated with it. Microsoft account. It’s as easy as taking the steps listed in “How to Create a Local Account on Windows 11” below.
Once you’ve made your account (while still connected to your primary administrative account), go into Settings, Accounts, and Family and Other Users. Select the account that you just set up.
In the next section, under “Account Options,” click “Change account type,” and a new window will appear. In the window that appears, set your type of account to “Administrator” and click OK.
Now, you can connect to another (local) account you’ve set up. Go to Accounts > Settings > Family & Other Users. Select that (Microsoft) account that you wish to eliminate, then select “Remove” next to the “Account and data” field.
It will erase the user account as well as data. This procedure is most effective immediately after the Windows 11 install when you aren’t adding additional data or customizing your account.
You must confirm that you are ready with the “Delete account and data” button and the “Delete account and data” button, and your account will be deleted. Now you’re left with one local account.
Bypass Windows 11 Online Account Requirement With Rufus
If this method doesn’t perform for you, then I suggest making a Windows 11 bootable USB drive by using Rufus, which is a no-cost and open-source software. In the latest upgrade, Rufus allows you to remove the Microsoft account prerequisite for a clean installation. The update does not alter the ISO image, but it does remove the limitation and flashes the image. If you want to establish an account locally for Windows 11, use Rufus. Windows 11, use Rufus and eliminate the requirement for an online account.
1. Download Rufus via the download link below. You must install Rufus Version 3.18 or higher. Then, connect your USB thumb drive to your personal computer.
2. Then, you can click “Select” and add the Windows 11 ISO image. Learn how to Download Windows 11 ISO from our link officially.
3. Then, you can click “START” and see a pop-up on the screen.
4. Make sure you activate this option “Remove requirement for an online Microsoft account” checkbox. After that, you can click “OK”. If you want to establish the name of your local account or turn off data collection, as well as bypass any additional Windows 11 requirements, you could do it.
5. At last, Rufus will start flashing the image. When it’s completed, begin booting from the USB drive, then run Windows 11. Following installation, your web-based Microsoft account page won’t be displayed in any way. Create an account locally and go forward without issue.
DISCONNECT YOUR PHYSICAL CONNECTION TO THE INTERNET
If you’ve got an Ethernet (wired) connection and want to disconnect the ethernet cable to detach the network. You can then set up your local account in Windows 11 instead. What you have to accomplish.
1. Connect the network cable.
2. Select the Back button. Click the back.
3. Make sure you have the correct name and password for your local account before proceeding with using Windows 11 OOBE.
If you’re connected to Wireless connectivity, There are a few suggestions:
1. Switch off the router at your house to cut off your internet connection for a few seconds. Select the back arrow to create an account local to your home.
2. If you own a laptop computer, you might have a keyboard that you can use that allows you to disconnect or reconnect on wireless networks.
3. If you are using a USB dongle, unplug it from your PC.
4. Switch on “Airplane Mode” if there is an option for your gadget.
Can I Switch Back To A Microsoft Account After Creating A Local Account?
You can return to a Microsoft account after creating an account locally. Use the same procedure as in the FAQ previously to transfer between a local account and a Microsoft account.
Will Skipping The Microsoft Account Setup Affect My Ability To Use Microsoft Office?
A: No, not skipping the Microsoft account configuration won’t affect your capacity to access Microsoft Office. You can still access and install Microsoft Office applications without a Microsoft account if you’ve got a valid license or subscription.
How do you bypass Windows 11 key activation?
If you don’t possess the correct license to use Windows 11, you can continue to install and utilize Windows 11 with a few minimal reductions. Choose the I don’t have a key for a product option when installing Windows 11 and configure it in the initial boot. Then, you can utilize Windows 11 (any version) on your personal computer. However, you can’t alter the appearance of your computer without activating it.
What happens when I uninstall the Microsoft accounts from the PC?
If you delete the MS account you’d like to erase, it is a local account; all information associated with it that is stored on your computer will disappear. Thus, you must protect your information as the information contained in it.
What can I do to get around Windows 11 Microsoft account requirements?
To get around the Windows 11 Home’s Microsoft account restrictions to bypass Microsoft account requirements, follow the procedure above. For that, press Shift+F10 to open the Command Prompt and enter this command: taskkill /F /IM oobenetworkconnectionflow.exe. To keep you informed, it will end it off. Network Connection Flow Process.
What’s the difference between a Microsoft account and a local account on Windows 11?
The main difference between a Microsoft account and a local account is that without a Microsoft account, you will lose access to certain online services that require the use of a Microsoft account, like Microsoft Store, in which you can install applications, OneDrive, which you can utilize to transfer your files as well as settings, etc.
Additionally, with Microsoft accounts, users can connect to multiple computers using an identical Microsoft account. It allows the user to keep their settings stored across multiple computers. Contrary to what you might think, the local account may only be available on the Windows on which it was first created.
Is Windows 11 forced to use a Microsoft account?
Microsoft has previously said that to run Windows 11 Home, users need to create a Microsoft Account. Microsoft is now revealing that future versions of Windows 11 would necessitate both connecting to the Internet and registration of an account with a Microsoft account. This would affect both the Home and Pro users.
Conclusion:
Installing Windows 11 sans a Microsoft account is a possibility for people who are concerned about their privacy or use different software for productivity. This article will provide the most important things to think about in making your selection:
Users’ flexibility can take control of their operating system and personal data by setting up and running Windows 11 without a Microsoft account.
Privacy: Not having a Microsoft account will limit the information Microsoft can collect about you.
Alternative Tools for Productivity: Windows 11 works without a Microsoft account. OpenOffice, LibreOffice, or Google Docs can be used for managing documents and creating.
Data Security A lack of a Microsoft account means less chance of data breach.
Be sure to weigh the advantages of more privacy and control against restrictions on accessing features or services that are tied to accounts with a Microsoft account. Users who decide not to sign up for the benefit of a Microsoft account must ensure that they implement security measures, like using strong passwords and regularly updating their antivirus software.