How to Install Windows 11 with a Local Account Instead of Microsoft Account

Microsoft is pushing hard to force the Windows 10 users to upgrade to Windows 11. In need, a lot of folks already finished the upgrade, including myself. I managed to install Windows 11 on a few unsupported hardware (unsupported CPU and No TPM or Secure Boot.) One of the biggest issue with Windows 11 install is that you have to connect a Microsoft account. If you don’t have one, you have to create a new one instead.

In addition, it takes much more time when setting up Windows 11 with a Microsoft account. It will install a set of bloatware developed by Microsoft, such as One Drive, Duolingo, Netflix, etc… Finally, your PC will be loaded with crappy software and the performance will be slowed down too.

So in this post, I will share you have to install Windows 11 with a local account instead of a Microsoft account, which is a mandatory requirement according to the description of Windows 11 product page.

Benefits of Using a Local Account on Windows 11

• Local accounts are not connected to Microsoft’s cloud services and it reduces the amount of personal data shared with Microsoft.
• Local accounts often result in fewer background services running, which can improve system performance and reduce resource usage.
• You can customize your local user profile without the changes being synced across other devices.
• You can customize your local user profile without the changes being synced across other devices.
• You have more control over when and how updates are installed, which can be beneficial if you prefer to manage updates manually.

In short, using a local account on Windows 11 can provide a more private, secure, and streamlined experience, particularly for users who value independence from cloud services and enhanced control over their computing environment.

How to Install Windows 11 with Local Account (No Microsoft Account )

There are a few registry hacks available to help you install Windows 11 with a local account. It is totally free but only suitable for advanced users as you have to edit the registry during the installation. I am not going to share details about it as it is more risky.

Instead, I am introducing a simple, straightforward and less risky method in here. To do this, we should install an app called WinBootMate on our PC or Mac. It has a built-in feature to bypass Windows 11 system requirements, such as TPM, Secure Boot or Microsoft account.

Step 1: Download a copy of WinBootMate app from this link. You can try it on a Windows PC or Mac.

https://www.syscute.com/download.html

Step 2: Download Windows 11 ISO (disk image) from Microsoft website.

Step 3: Connect a USB drive to the computer and fire up the WinBootMate app. After that, load the Windows 11 ISO into the app and choose the USB drive.

Step 4: Check the Windows 11 bypass option as seen in the screenshot. This will remove the requirements force impacted by Windows 11 OS.

Step 5: Finally, click the Burn button to start burning Windows 11 ISO to USB. WinBootMate will copy files and folders from the ISO and modify the registry automatically. You have to wait about 12 minutes before this task is completed.

Step 6: Now, boot your computer from Windows 11 install USB and follow the screen prompts to install Windows 11 with a local account instead.

Frequently Asked Options for Installing Windows 11 with Local Account

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

Yes, you can install Windows 11 without a Microsoft account by setting up a local account. During the setup process, disconnect from the internet or use specific methods to bypass the Microsoft account requirement, such as entering a non-existent email address or using command prompt commands.

2. How do I disconnect from the Internet during the Windows 11 setup?

You can disconnect from the internet by unplugging the Ethernet cable or turning off Wi-Fi. If you’re using a laptop, you can disable Wi-Fi by turning off the physical Wi-Fi switch or by entering Airplane mode.

3. What should I do if Windows 11 insists on a Microsoft account during setup?

If Windows 11 insists on a Microsoft account during setup, you can:

• Disconnect from the internet.
• Enter a non-existent email address, which will prompt an error and allow you to set up a local account.
• Use the command prompt to bypass the requirement by pressing Shift + F10 and typing oobe\bypassnro.

4. Can I switch to a local account after setting up Windows 11 with a Microsoft account?

Yes, you can switch to a local account after setting up Windows 11 with a Microsoft account. Go to Settings > Accounts > Your Info and select "Sign in with a local account instead." Follow the prompts to create and switch to a local account.

Summary

Though there are dozens of solutions available online, this is the simplest trick you can follow to install Windows 11 on a PC with local account. I have tested it on more than 10 machines and it is 100% working. Please don’t forget to back up the data before the upgrade.