Microsoft encourages using a Microsoft account during Windows 11 setup, but it’s not mandatory. This guide demonstrates how to install Windows 11 24H2 (Home) using a local account, bypassing the Microsoft account requirement. This method works similarly to previous Windows 11 versions and doesn’t require an internet connection during setup. While not immediately obvious, a few simple steps during installation can achieve this. Using the official Microsoft ISO file or a USB installation drive is recommended.
Setting up a local user account during Windows 11 24H2 Home installation. Thomas Joos
Installing Windows 11 24H2 with a Local Account
Whether installing Windows 11 24H2 on a desktop or laptop, choose “Install Windows 11” under “Select setup option.” Proceed with the installation until prompted to enter a Microsoft account. At this point, instead of entering your Microsoft account details, use the following method to create a local account:
Creating the Local Account
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Open Command Prompt: Press Shift + F10. On some laptops, you might need to use Shift + Fn + F10. This will open a command prompt window.
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Create a User: Type the following command, replacing “username” with your desired username. This username must be different from the PC name you entered earlier.
net user username /addFor example:
net user john /add -
Grant Administrator Privileges: Add the newly created user to the Administrators group using this command:
net localgroup Administrators username /addFor example:
net localgroup Administrators john /add -
Prepare and Restart: Execute the following commands in the command prompt:
cd oobe msoobe.exe && shutdown -r
Selecting the new, local user account to log in to Windows 11 24H2 Home. Thomas Joos
Completing the Installation
After restarting, you’ll see an error message: “The user name or password is incorrect.” Click “OK.” On the next screen, select the local user account you just created. Now, complete the remaining installation steps as usual.
Windows 11 24H2 Home can be used with a local user account. Thomas Joos
Setting a Password (Optional)
Once Windows 11 is installed, you can add a password to your local account.
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Open Command Prompt as Administrator: Search for “cmd” in the Start menu. Right-click on “Command Prompt” and select “Run as administrator.”
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Set Password: Use the following command, replacing “username” with your username and “password” with your desired password:
net user username passwordFor example:
net user john MyStrongPassword
Using a Microsoft Account Later
If you decide to use a Microsoft account later, navigate to Settings and click on “Sign in” under “Your info.”
By following these steps, you can successfully install Windows 11 24H2 with a local account and enjoy its features without being tied to a Microsoft account during setup. You can always add a Microsoft account later if needed.
