Install Windows 11 Pro 24H2 with offline local account

When installing Windows 11 (especially version 24H2), Microsoft mandates an internet connection and a Microsoft Account during the OOBE (Out Of Box Experience). This guide explains how to bypass this requirement and create a traditional local offline account.

Step 1: Start Installation

Proceed with the standard Windows 11 installation until you reach the "Let's connect you to a network" screen. If you are already connected via Ethernet, unplug the cable now.

Step 2: Open Command Prompt

On the "Let's connect you to a network" screen (or earlier in the setup):

1. Press Shift + F10 on your keyboard.
2. A command prompt window (cmd.exe) will appear.

Step 3: Execute Bypass Command

In the command prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:

start ms-cxh:localonly

This will immediately take you to the local account creation screen without requiring a restart.

Step 4: Create Local Account

1. Navigate through the initial setup screens again (Region, Keyboard).
2. When you reach the "Let's connect you to a network" screen again, you will now see a new option: "I don't have internet" (usually at the bottom next to the Next button).
3. Click "I don't have internet".
4. On the next screen, click "Continue with limited setup".
5. You can now enter a local username and password to create your offline account.

Note on 24H2

In version 24H2 and later, the start ms-cxh:localonly command is the current working method to bypass the Microsoft Account requirement. The older OOBE\BYPASSNRO command no longer works as of January 2026. Once the account is created, you can connect to the internet normally.