Step-by-step guide to installing Windows 11 with a local account (without a Microsoft account)

Step 1: Prepare Installation Media

1. Download the Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft’s official website:
   https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/windows11

2. Create a bootable USB using Rufus or the Media Creation Tool:

   • Rufus Method (recommended for bypassing Microsoft account requirement):

     • Download Rufus: https://rufus.ie/

     • Select the USB drive, choose the Windows 11 ISO, and click Start.

     • Under “Windows installation options,” select “Skip TPM & Secure Boot checks” (if needed for older hardware).

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Step 2: Boot from USB & Start Installation

1. Insert the USB into the PC and restart.

2. Enter BIOS/UEFI (press F2/DEL/ESC during boot, varies by motherboard).

3. Set USB as the first boot device and save changes.

4. Windows Setup will load—select language, time format, and keyboard layout → Next.

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Step 3: Install Windows 11

1. Click “Install Now”.

2. Enter your product key (or skip if you’ll activate later).

3. Select Windows 11 Pro/Home (Pro allows more local account options).

4. Accept the license terms → Next.

5. Choose “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)”.

6. Select the drive, format if needed, and click Next.

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Step 4: Bypass Microsoft Account Requirement

1. After installation, Windows will prompt for a Microsoft account (do not enter one).

2. Disconnect from the internet (unplug Ethernet/Wi-Fi) to force local account creation.

   • If online, press Shift + F10 to open Command Prompt and run:

     OOBEBYPASSNRO

     OR
     start ms-cxh:localonly
     
     This reboots the PC and adds a “I don’t have internet” option.

3. On the next screen:

   • Select “I don’t have internet” → “Continue with limited setup”.

4. Click “Continue with a local account”.

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Step 5: Create a Local Account

1. Enter a username (e.g., “Admin”).

2. (Optional) Set a password or leave blank.

3. Skip security questions (if prompted).

4. Adjust privacy settings (disable ads/tracking if preferred) → Accept.

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Step 6: Complete Setup

1. Wait for Windows to finalize settings.

2. Once at the desktop, reconnect to the internet.

3. (Optional) Activate Windows via Settings > Update & Security > Activation.

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Troubleshooting

• If Microsoft account prompts return, run Shift + F10 and type: 

  net user [username] /add net localgroup administrators [username] /add

  Replace [username] with your desired name.