New Windows 11 Trick Lets You Skip Microsoft Account Setup (Again)
If you’re setting up Windows 11 and want to avoid signing in with a Microsoft account, there’s a new workaround—since the old OOBE\BYPASSNRO command no longer works in current builds like 23H2.
The New Method: Use a URI Shortcut
During setup, when you reach the screen that asks you to sign in with Microsoft, follow these steps:
- Press Shift + F10 to open a Command Prompt.
- Type the following command and press Enter:
start ms-cxh:localonly - This command triggers a hidden option in the Windows setup flow that switches to the local account creation screen.
From there, you can proceed to create a traditional offline account—no Microsoft login, no internet connection required.
Why This Matters
Microsoft has been steadily pushing users to link their installations to Microsoft accounts, citing better security, integration, and cloud-based convenience. But there are valid reasons to go local:
- Privacy: Fewer cloud hooks.
- Control: No auto-sync, fewer assumptions.
- Deployment: Easier in lab, test, or isolated environments.
- Speed: Skips email verification and other delays.
Notes
- This method was tested and confirmed on Windows 11 23H2 (build 22631.3447).
- You still need to be online to reach the sign-in screen—but this trick lets you break out of the Microsoft Account requirement once you get there.
For IT pros, tinkerers, and privacy-conscious users, this simple command keeps local account setups alive—at least for now.