Set up Windows 11 without a Microsoft account

When in the Out-of-box experience (OOBE), disable internet requirement by disconnecting the Ethernet network cable.

If the device you’re setting up only has a WiFi card (e.g. Surface); disable it before continuing. Open command prompt as stated before with Shift + F10 and run the Device Manager console : devmgmt.msc

On the “Sign in” page, use these steps :

Up to version 24H2 :

  1. Use the Shift + F10 keyboard shortcut to open Command Prompt.
  2. Type the following command to release the current network configuration (no spaces) :
    oobe\bypassnro
  3. Computer will reboot automatically, and you may need to start the out-of-box experience again.
  4. Click the “I don’t have internet” option.
  5. Proceed with creating a standard offline account.

From version 25H2 on :

  1. Use the Shift + F10 keyboard shortcut to open Command Prompt.
  2. Type the following command to invoke the local account creation wizard :
    start ms-cxh:localonly
  3. The wizard will launch and allow to create the local account.
  4. Proceed with installation.