Microsoft is making a big change to how Windows 11 is installed. Soon, you will no longer be able to set up Windows 11 without being online and logging in with a Microsoft account.
This new rule is being tested now, and it will affect everyone who wants to do a fresh installation.
Here is what you need to know, explained simply.
What’s Changing in Windows 11 Setup
In the latest Insider Preview release, Microsoft removed tricks that people used to set up Windows without a Microsoft account or internet. These tricks allowed creating what’s known as a “local account.” Now those methods are blocked.
If you try to skip the Microsoft account login, the setup process may crash or reset. You will be forced to restart with an internet connection and sign in.
Microsoft says they are doing this because bypass methods sometimes skip essential setup steps. Those steps ensure that your computer is fully configured.
Which Workarounds Were Removed
Some of the most common hacks Microsoft removed include:
- The bypassnro command
- The start ms-cxh:localonly command
- Other scripts or shortcuts that allowed skipping the Microsoft account screen
When users tried those commands in the new preview build, setup would break or revert.
These hacks were popular because they let tech users avoid using a Microsoft account or even being online during setup. But now those options are gone.
When It Takes Effect & Who It Affects
Right now, the change is only in a test version (Insider Preview Build 26220.6772). It’s for people who test Windows features before they go public.
Once the tests are done, this requirement will likely reach the general public edition of Windows 11.
This affects clean installs of Windows — that means when you install from scratch, rather than upgrading.
Devices managed by organizations, schools, or businesses may have different rules. This change does not apply to devices already joined to a domain.
Why Microsoft Says It’s Doing This
Microsoft’s reasoning includes:
- Preventing users from skipping “critical setup screens”
- Ensuring devices are fully configured
- Encouraging users to use Microsoft account features like OneDrive, sync settings, etc.
- Integrating more users into Microsoft’s online ecosystem
Microsoft argues that skipping those setup stages can leave your device in an unstable or incomplete state.
What Users Are Saying
Many users are unhappy. On forums like Reddit, people express frustration about losing control over how Windows is installed.
Comments include:
“My ISO is forever. Bypass worked great, and they are removing it??!!”
“You can’t bypass login now? No internet? No install? What about offline setups?”
Critics argue this change erodes user freedom and privacy. Some worry it’s a way to push users into Microsoft’s services.
On the flip side, a few argue that requiring online setup helps maintain consistency and security across devices. But most reactions have been negative.
What You Can Do
If you are preparing to install or reinstall Windows 11, here’s what you should plan for:
- Be ready to connect to the internet during setup
- Be ready to sign in with a Microsoft account
- You might be able to switch to a local account after setup, but initial login is required
- Keep backups of your files, so you’re not forced into a fresh install without preparation
- Stay with the Insider program if you want to see or test changes early
What This Means for Windows Users & the Future
This change marks a shift in how Microsoft views setup and user experience. It signals that Microsoft wants every user plugged into its online ecosystem from day one.
It also places more reliance on Microsoft’s cloud, services, and account structure. For people who value privacy or want full control of their machines, this change could be unwelcome.
In the coming weeks, watch for:
- Whether Microsoft backs off due to backlash
- How this affects advanced users, offline setups, and tech shops
- Whether there will be new workarounds (less technical or hidden)
This is a big move in Windows’ recent history. Microsoft is ending the era when you could install Windows 11 without internet or a Microsoft account. It’s a change that will touch almost every user who ever needs to install Windows from scratch.
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