Windows 11: How to Create a Local Account During Setup

Microsoft keeps nudging users toward signing in with an online account, but you can still complete setup offline and use a local account — the exact method depends on your Windows 11 build.

1. For Windows 11 24H2 (current public release)

Command:

OOBE\BYPASSNRO

Steps:

1- When you reach the “Choose your country” screen, press Shift + F10.

2- In Command Prompt, type the command above and press Enter.

3- The system restarts.

4- Back in setup, select “I don’t have Internet” → “Continue with limited setup.”

5- Enter your desired local username and password (optional).

🛈 Tip: If you’re already at the network screen, you can temporarily disable connectivity by typing:

ipconfig /release

2. For Windows 11 25H2 and later builds (26100 / 26200+)

Command:

start ms-cxh:localonly

Steps:

1. At the Microsoft Account sign-in screen, press Shift + F10.
2. Run the command above.
3. A “Create a user for this PC” dialog appears — enter your local account info and continue setup.

This method directly launches the local account wizard without rebooting.

3. For IT admins or repeated installs

Use Rufus to bake the bypass into your Windows 11 USB installer:

• In Rufus, check:
  • ✅ Remove requirement for an online Microsoft account
  • ✅ Create a local account with username (optional)
  • (Optional) Set same regional settings as this user
• Boot from the USB and proceed offline:
  • “I don’t have Internet” → “Continue with limited setup.”

4. Add a local user after installation

Already finished setup with a Microsoft account? Add a local one anytime:

1. Settings → Accounts → Family & other users.
2. Under Other users, click Add account.
3. Choose “I don’t have this person’s sign-in information” → “Add a user without a Microsoft account.”
4. Create the username and optional password.