How to Set Up Windows 11 Without a Microsoft Account

You can install Windows 11 without having a Microsoft account. Since the launch of the operating system in late 2021, Microsoft has prompted users to set up more user accounts, but you don't have to accept this pressure. If you know what you're doing, you can install and use Windows 11 perfectly without creating a Microsoft account.

Although most people can create an account initially without considering it, there is a good reason not to create one, such as if you have just purchased a Windows 11 license or upgraded from Windows 10 to Windows 11. Maybe you need to leave the network for concerns about security issues or just have to set up the Windows 11 computer or laptop that your child will be using. For whatever reason, the following steps will help you learn how to install Windows 11 without having a Microsoft account.

How to Install Windows 11 Without a Microsoft Account

There's a simple trick for setting up a local account that involves issuing a command to keep Windows from requiring Internet to install / set up and then cutting off Internet at just the right time in the setup process. This works the same way whether you are doing a clean install of Windows 11 or following the OOBE process on a store-bought computer.

Begin the Windows 11 installation process as you normally would until you reach the "choose a country" screen.

Prevent Internet Requirement: Just before cutting off the internet, hit Shift + F10 to open a command prompt.

Disable Internet Requirement: In the command prompt window, type OOBE\BYPASSNRO and press Enter. This command disables the internet connection requirement for Windows 11 setup.

Cut off Internet Access: The computer will reboot, returning you to the same screen. Again, press Shift + F10 to open the command prompt. This time, type ipconfig /release and press Enter to disable the internet.

Close Command Prompt: Once you've disabled the internet, close the command prompt window.

Continue Installation: Proceed with the installation by selecting your region, keyboard, and other preferences as usual.

Skip Internet Connection: When prompted to connect to a network, click on "I don't have Internet" to proceed.

Opt for Limited Setup: Next, click on "Continue with limited setup" to bypass the internet requirement.

Create Local Account: You'll then be prompted to create a local account. Enter the username you prefer for your local account and click "Next."

Set Password (Optional): Optionally, you can set a password for your local account by entering it in the designated field. Click "Next" to proceed. It's recommended to set a password for security purposes, but you can leave it blank if you prefer.

Complete Installation: Follow the remaining steps to complete the Windows 11 installation process as usual.

Create a Windows 11 Bootable USB that Allows Bypassing Microsoft Accounts 

Another option is to make an install disk with the setup procedure pre-configured with the "no Internet necessary" setting. Here's how to construct a Windows 11 install DVD that will enable you to turn off the Internet while the system is configuring, allowing you to use a local account rather than a Microsoft one.

1. Download the Windows 11 ISO file.

2. If one has not already been attached, insert the USB flash drive you want to use as an install disk.

3. Download and launch AOMEI Partition Assistant. 

• Prepare a Windows 11 ISO or ESD file. Remember where it is located.
• Prepare a USB drive with 3.0 port. USB 2.0 port is also OK but it won’t perform as well as USB 3.0 port. AOMEI Partition Assistant requires the USB drive is only larger than 13 GB.

When you prepared all the things, you can start to create Windows To Go USB drive. Take an example of creating a Windows 11 to Go USB drive.

You just need to Plug in the USB 3.0 you prepared before and make sure it can be detected by the computer. Download, install and launch AOMEI Partition Assistant. Then run the Windows To Go Creator and follow the instructions.

Apart from the powerful  features, it also has these practical functions allows you effectively manage your Windows system:

• Partition size adjustment: This tool allows users to adjust partition size without losing data, whether partition size expansion or decrease will meet user storage needs to optimize disk usage.

• Copying and Cloning Drive: AOMEI Partition Assistant enables smooth data transfer and backup by creating a complete copy of your disk or partition to ensure your data is secure. For example, you can transfer HDD OS to SSD without any data loss and reinstalling on Windows 11,10,8,7.

• Partition Recovery: In case of an emergency deletion or loss of partition, this tool allows users to scan partitions to maximize data integrity protection and minimize the risk of data loss.

• Drive Conversion: Users can easily convert disks between different file systems such as converting from MBR to GPT or converting back without damaging data.

Conclusion

Installing Windows 11 without using a Microsoft account is a straightforward simple step that allows users more control over system settings, whether you choose a local account for privacy purposes or just want to avoid the need for the Internet during installation. These ways will allow you to have a smooth experience with tools like AOMEI Partition Assistant. Windows system management is easier and more efficient.

FAQs

1. Can I install Windows 11 without a Microsoft account?

   • Yes, you can install Windows 11 with a local account, bypassing the need for a Microsoft account.

2. Why would I want to install Windows 11 without a Microsoft account?

   • Some users prefer to use a local account for privacy reasons or to avoid being tied to Microsoft services.

3. Is it possible to create a Windows 11 bootable USB without requiring a Microsoft account during setup?

   • Yes, tools like AOMEI Partition Assistant allow you to create a Windows To Go USB with pre-configured settings to bypass the Microsoft account requirement.

4. What practical functions does AOMEI Partition Assistant offer?

   • AOMEI Partition Assistant offers features such as partition size adjustment, drive copying and cloning, partition recovery, and drive conversion, enhancing Windows system management.

5. Is setting up Windows 11 without a Microsoft account legal?

   • Yes, installing Windows 11 with a local account is entirely legal and supported by Microsoft.