Windows 11 without a Microsoft account

To set up Windows 11 without a Microsoft account, the most reliable method is to use the Rufus tool to create a bootable USB installer with the "Remove requirement for an online Microsoft account" option enabled. Alternatively, during the installation process, press Shift + F10 to open the Command Prompt and enter start ms-cxh:localonly (for builds 26100+) or oobe\bypassnro (for older builds); after the system restarts, select "I don't have internet" to create a local account.

For Windows 10, the approach varies by edition. On Windows 10 Home, disconnect from the internet (unplug Ethernet or disable Wi-Fi via Shift + F10 and ipconfig /release) and select "Offline account" or "I don't have internet" when prompted. On Windows 10 Pro, choose "Set up for an organization" instead of personal use, which allows you to create a local account directly.