It was once possible to simply install Windows, choose a Local account as part of the installation, and live happily ever after while using your computer with your Local Windows account. Not anymore. It looks like Microsoft REALLY wants us to use Microsoft Account, but I REALLY don’t like this idea. Why should I be signing in to Microsoft every time I want to use my PC? What if I’m offline? What if my Microsoft Account got hacked and my password was changed? The thought of this made me consider permanently switching to Linux and never using Windows 11 again. This was until I figured out how to install Windows 11 without using Microsoft Account. Unfortunately, it’s not very straightforward. Read on to find out how you can still install Windows 11 without having to create or use a Microsoft account.
- Shift + F10 no longer works. I’ve been trying this many times, but it simply doesn’t work anymore. I assume that there has been an update, and this “loophole” was closed.
- The only way to install Windows 11 without a Microsoft account is to use Rufus (a well-known and trusted bootable USB creator) to create a bootable USB flash drive. Make sure to select an option allowing installation without a Windows Account / Internet.
- Update settings within your PC / Laptop BIOS to disable “Trusted Execution”. Without this, an error message will appear during installation preventing any further progress.
- Proceed with the installation, and you should see the “I don’t have internet” link. Clicking it will allow you to create a Local Windows account, and proceed with normal installation.
I hope that this was post useful. If you’ve found a discrepancy or want to add something, feel free to leave a comment with suggestions.
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