Windows Setup Guide: Creating a Local Account Without Microsoft Sign-In

When setting up a new PC with Windows, Microsoft often encourages you to sign in with a Microsoft account. However, it is possible to create a local account instead. Here’s how you can do it:

During Initial Setup

1. Start the Setup Process: Turn on your new PC and start the Windows setup process.
2. Connect to the Internet: If prompted, connect to the internet. This step may vary depending on the Windows version. Sometimes, disconnecting from the internet can help force the local account option.
3. Choose ‘Set up for personal use’: When asked how you’ll be using your device, select “Set up for personal use” and click “Next.”
4. Sign-in Options:
5. In Let’s add your Microsoft account, click on Sign in options.
6. Windows 10: On the “Sign in with Microsoft” screen, select the “Offline Account” option (usually found at the bottom left or somewhere on the screen). Microsoft might try to convince you to use a Microsoft account. Select “No” or “Skip for now.”
7. Windows 11 Home: This might require a workaround since Windows 11 Home usually forces a Microsoft account login. Disconnect from the internet to trigger the local account setup option. When you see the “Let’s connect you to a network” screen, press Shift + F10 to open a command prompt, type OOBE\BYPASSNRO, and press Enter. The PC will restart and allow you to set up without internet, enabling the local account option.
8. User: no@thankyou.com, Pass: yre45ihvcde4tuiioyytrt5345667iiijjhhgfdcb, Account’s banned, Proceed to create local account.
9. Windows 11 Enterprise -> Domain Join instead. Use Workgroup as domain. It’s about the only way to create a local account.
10. Create a Local Account:
    • Enter a username for your local account.
    • Create a password (optional but recommended for security).
    • Follow the remaining setup instructions.