How to Set Up Windows 11 with a Local Account (Bypassing Microsoft Sign-In)

If you've been trying to install Windows 11 lately, you've probably noticed Microsoft has made it tougher to skip their online account requirement. The old trick of typing cxh:local during setup doesn't work anymore. But there's still a reliable workaround using a simple command script. This method lets you finish the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE) with a traditional local account instead of linking everything to a Microsoft profile.

For the full technical breakdown and any updates, check out the GitHub repo here: github.com/BikramBhujel/bypassnro

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Get to the OOBE Screen

Boot into the Windows 11 installation and proceed until you hit the initial setup screens the ones asking for your region, language, or network connection. Stop there before it asks you to sign in.

2. Open Command Prompt

Press Shift + F10 on your keyboard. This pops open a Command Prompt window right from the setup environment no need to complete installation first.

3. Download the Bypass Script

In the Command Prompt, grab the script file using curl  it's built into modern Windows setups. Run this exact command:

curl -L bikrambhujel.com.np/bypass -o skip.cmd

This downloads a small batch file called skip.cmd to your current directory.

4. Execute the Script

Now just run it:

skip.cmd

The script does the heavy lifting it tweaks a registry key to skip the network requirement and lets you create a local account on the next screens.

After that, you'll breeze through the rest of setup without needing an internet connection or Microsoft login. It's straightforward, reversible if needed, and works on the latest Windows 11 builds as of now.

Why Use a Local Account?

A local account keeps your data on your machine only. No syncing to Microsoft servers, no requirement for an internet connection to log in, and no Microsoft profile attached to your device. For privacy-conscious users, air-gapped machines, or enterprise environments where Microsoft accounts aren't appropriate, this is the right setup.

The bypass script only modifies a temporary registry entry during the OOBE phase. Once setup is complete it has no ongoing effect on your system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the cxh:local trick still work?

No. Microsoft patched it in recent Windows 11 builds. The command script method described above is the current working approach.

Will this work on the latest Windows 11 version?

Yes, as of the time of writing this works on current Windows 11 builds. Check the GitHub repo for the latest updates if something changes.

Is it safe to use this script?

The source code is fully open and available at github.com/BikramBhujel/bypassnro. It makes a single registry change to skip the network check during OOBE. Review it yourself before running if you want to be sure.

Can I switch to a Microsoft account later?

Yes. After setup is complete you can go to Settings → Accounts → Your info and sign in with a Microsoft account at any time. Starting with a local account doesn't lock you out of that option.