What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
You can set up a new Windows PC without a Microsoft account by opening the local-account dialog with start ms-cxh:localonly or trying the offline OOBE command OOBEBYPASSNRO. Both methods are build-dependent Windows 11 workarounds, and disconnecting Wi-Fi or Ethernet before setup improves the chance that either method will appear.
Windows 11 still supports local accounts, but consumer setup increasingly encourages—or, on some builds and device images, appears to require—an online Microsoft account. The exact screens depend on the Windows edition, build, manufacturer image, internet connection, and whether the computer is managed by an employer or school.
The instructions below are current to the research cutoff of August 16, 2026. Microsoft can change or remove these setup paths in future Windows 11 updates, so neither command should be treated as a permanent, officially guaranteed feature.
Key takeaways
start ms-cxh:localonlyis the newer direct route to a local-account creation dialog on some recent Windows 11 builds.OOBEBYPASSNROcan restart setup and expose an offline or limited-setup option, but Microsoft has removed or disabled the mechanism in some Windows images.- Disconnect Wi-Fi and unplug Ethernet before trying either method; an internet connection can cause Windows Setup to return to the online-account flow.
- Windows 11 Home and Pro do not have reliably identical OOBE behavior, so edition alone cannot guarantee that either command will work.
- A local account reduces automatic cloud linkage but does not prevent separate sign-ins to OneDrive, Microsoft Store, Edge, Office, Xbox, or other Microsoft services.
Before you begin
These methods are intended for a new Windows 11 PC during first-run setup, also called the out-of-box experience or OOBE, and for a clean Windows installation that has not yet reached the desktop. If Windows setup has already finished, use the post-setup conversion instructions later in this article instead.
Popular on Amazon
- Reliable Plug and Play: The USB receiver provides a reliable wireless connection up to 33 ft (1), so you can forget about drop-outs and delays and you can take it wherever you use your computer
- Type in Comfort: The design of this keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the low-profile, quiet keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys, number pad, and arrow keys
- Durable and Resilient: This full-size wireless keyboard features a spill-resistant design (2), durable keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height
- Long Battery Life: MK270 combo features a 36-month keyboard and 12-month mouse battery life (3), along with on/off switches allowing you to go months without the hassle of changing batteries
- Easy to Use: This wireless keyboard and mouse combo features 8 multimedia hotkeys for instant access to the Internet, email, play/pause, and volume so you can easily check out your favorite sites
Disconnect the PC from the internet
Do not connect to Wi-Fi, and unplug the Ethernet cable. If the PC is already online, disconnect it before opening Command Prompt. Some laptops have a function key for disabling Wi-Fi; if Windows reconnects automatically, temporarily disable the wireless adapter or forget the network. Disconnecting the router is possible, but it is usually simpler and safer to disconnect only the computer.
Have the correct keyboard shortcut ready
At the relevant setup screen, press Shift + F10 to open Command Prompt. On some laptops, the function row is controlled by the Fn key, so try Shift + Fn + F10 if the first shortcut does nothing. A wired USB keyboard can help if the built-in keyboard is not recognized during OOBE.
Do not use these steps on a managed work or school PC
An employer- or school-managed computer may intentionally require Microsoft Entra ID, a domain account, or mobile-device management. Microsoft documents that organizational devices can enroll during OOBE and require internet connectivity for that process; bypassing enrollment can leave the device improperly configured. Use the organization’s instructions or contact its administrator instead. See Microsoft’s Microsoft Entra OOBE enrollment documentation and Windows device-management guidance.
If you are reinstalling Windows, back up files first. A clean installation can erase the internal drive. Microsoft’s installation-media reinstall guidance explains the broader recovery process.
How do you set up a new Windows PC without a Microsoft account using the direct local-account dialog?
The direct local-account dialog method invokes an internal Windows setup route from Command Prompt. It is the newer method to try first, but Microsoft does not document ms-cxh:localonly as a consumer-facing command with guaranteed support.
- Start the new-PC setup or clean Windows installation.
- Choose the region, keyboard layout, and other initial preferences.
- Continue until Windows asks you to connect to a network or sign in with a Microsoft account.
- Press Shift + F10. If nothing happens, press Shift + Fn + F10.
- In the Command Prompt window, type the following command exactly, without quotation marks:
start ms-cxh:localonly - Press Enter.
- If the Windows build supports the route, a local-account creation window should open. Enter a local username, create a strong password, and provide any requested password-recovery information.
- Finish the remaining Windows setup screens.
The expected result is a Windows dialog that creates an account stored on that PC without requiring a personal Microsoft email address. The Command Prompt window may remain visible behind the dialog.
The command is reported in recent Windows 11 coverage and Microsoft community discussions, but its availability can change. The Microsoft community report covering the local-only setup command and current independent Windows 11 setup coverage both illustrate why the command should be treated as build-dependent rather than guaranteed.
Also popular on Amazon
- Dependable wireless connection: Enjoy the reliability and convenience of 2.4 GHz connectivity with your logitech wireless keyboard and mouse combo, wireless range up to 10 meters away at home, or work.
- Full-Size Wireless Keyboard: Comfortable, quiet typing on a familiar keyboard layout with palm rest, spill-resistant design, and media keys. This wireless keyboard and mouse logitech has easy-access to media keys
- Plug and Play: MK345 works seamlessly with Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS. Experience hassle-free setup with the logitech mk345 wireless combo and wireless keyboard mouse combo for various operating systems.
- Long-lasting Battery: The MK345 combo offers a full size keyboard battery life of up to 3 years and a mouse battery life of 18 months (1); batteries included
- Comfortable Right-handed Mouse: This wireless USB mouse with dongle works well for this wireless mouse and keyboard combo, featuring a contoured shape for all-day comfort and smooth, precise tracking and scrolling for easier navigation.
What if start ms-cxh:localonly does nothing?
- Confirm that Command Prompt has focus and that the spelling, colon, and punctuation are exact.
- Run the command without quotation marks while the Microsoft-account prompt is visible.
- Disconnect Wi-Fi and Ethernet, then try the command again.
- Make sure the PC is still in OOBE rather than at the normal Windows desktop.
- Try the older build-dependent URI shown below only as a fallback:
start ms-cxh://setaddlocalonly - If neither URI opens a dialog, continue with Method 2.
start ms-cxh://setaddlocalonly appears in older community instructions, while start ms-cxh:localonly is the shorter command more consistently reported for newer coverage. The two commands should not be presented as universally interchangeable.
How do you set up a new Windows PC without a Microsoft account with OOBEBYPASSNRO?
The offline OOBE method restarts Windows Setup and, on supported images, reveals an option to continue with limited setup without an internet connection.
- Keep the PC offline. Do not connect to Wi-Fi, and unplug Ethernet.
- Continue setup until Windows requires a network connection or displays the Microsoft-account sign-in screen.
- Press Shift + F10, or try Shift + Fn + F10 on a laptop that requires Fn.
- Type this command exactly:
OOBEBYPASSNRO - Press Enter. Windows should restart the OOBE process.
- Remain offline after the restart.
- Look for I don’t have internet, Continue with limited setup, or similarly worded offline-setup options.
- Select the offline option, create the local username and password, and complete setup.
Some instructions use OOBEBYPASSNRO.CMD instead. Start with the shorter OOBEBYPASSNRO form. If the Windows image no longer contains or accepts the corresponding script, the command will return an error or produce no useful change.
The command has been described in Microsoft community instructions for creating a local account during setup, but newer reports indicate that Microsoft has removed or disabled the mechanism in some Windows 11 builds. The Microsoft community discussion of fallback methods and independent current coverage both support treating BypassNRO as a fallback, not a universal solution.
Which method should you try first?
Try the direct local-account dialog first because it may create the account without restarting OOBE. Use the offline route when the direct command is unavailable or does not open a dialog.
| Method | Command | What should happen | Main limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct local-account dialog | start ms-cxh:localonly |
A local-account creation dialog opens over OOBE. | The internal URI may change or disappear in a future build. |
| Offline OOBE route | OOBEBYPASSNRO |
Setup restarts and may show offline or limited setup. | The BypassNRO mechanism is absent or disabled in some images. |
| Set up online, then switch | No Command Prompt command | Normal setup completes, followed by account conversion in Settings. | The Microsoft account is used initially, and cloud settings may already be configured. |
Does this work on Windows 11 Home and Pro?
Neither Windows 11 Home nor Windows 11 Pro guarantees the same local-account setup path across every build and device image. Windows 11 Home has historically presented the most restrictive consumer OOBE, while Windows 11 Pro may show additional work-or-school or domain-related choices, but labels and available options have changed.
Do not assume that a command works only on Pro or that Home makes a local account impossible. Build number, edition, manufacturer customization, internet state, and management enrollment can all affect the result. A Microsoft community discussion about Windows 11 24H2 and edition differences demonstrates why broad edition-based promises are unreliable.
Also popular on Amazon
- 【Ergonomic Wireless Keyboard Mouse 】: Wireless ergonomic keyboard is equipped with adjustable height tilt legs to increase comfort and prevent your wrists injury when typing for a long time. The full size wireless keyboard with numeric keypad and 12 multimedia shortcut keys, such as play/ pause, volume increase and decrease, and email, to help you improve work efficiency
- 【Stable & Reliable Wireless Connection】: This wireless keyboard and mouse combo share the same USB receiver(stored in the mouse), and they can also be used separately. Plug & play, no need to download any software, 2.4 GHz wireless provides a powerful and reliable connection up to 33 feet(10m) without any delays.You can enjoy the convenience and freedom of wireless connection at home or at work
- 【Comfortable Optical Mouse】: This compact lightweight wireless mouse features a hand-friendly contoured shape for all-day comfort, and smooth, precise tracking.1600 DPI to meet your daily needs. Perfect for home & office work and entertainment
- 【Long Battery Life】: Up to 365 Days of battery life for keyboard and mouse wireless, say goodbye to the hassle of charging cables and replacing batteries. After 10 minutes of inactivity, the wireless keyboard mouse combo will automatically go into sleep mode to save energy. The wireless keyboard requires one AAA battery, and the wireless mouse requires one AA battery.
- 【Less Noise, More Quiet Keys】: Soft membrane keys provide a quiet and comfortable typing experience, So you can type with confidence on a wireless keyboard crafted for comfort, precision and fluidity. The wireless mouse adopts silent micro-motion technology, which is almost completely silent when clicked. No more concerns about disturbing others.
If Windows 11 Pro displays Set up for work or school, followed by a Sign-in options route, use that path only when it genuinely matches the intended setup. Do not pretend that a home computer is an organization-managed device or enroll a personal PC in a work account merely to obtain a local login.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →What is the difference between a local account and a Microsoft account?
A local account is stored and authenticated on one PC. A Microsoft account is an online identity connected to Microsoft services, such as OneDrive, Microsoft Store, Xbox, Outlook.com, Windows backup, and settings synchronization. A work or school account is a separate organizational identity and is not equivalent to either personal account type.
| Feature | Local account | Microsoft account |
|---|---|---|
| Personal email required for the Windows login | No | Usually yes |
| Where the login is centered | The individual PC | A Microsoft online identity used across services and devices |
| Automatic settings synchronization | No | Available when enabled |
| OneDrive integration | Manual or optional | Easier integration during setup |
| Cloud-based account recovery and backup features | Limited; the user must plan recovery and backups | More available through connected Microsoft services |
| Offline Windows login | Yes | The account can be cached locally after setup, but initial consumer setup commonly expects internet access |
| Microsoft Store and apps | Apps may require a separate Microsoft sign-in | More integrated account experience |
Microsoft explains in its local-account and Microsoft-account guidance that signing in with a Microsoft account connects Windows to cloud services and can synchronize settings and files across devices.
A local account can reduce automatic cloud linkage and synchronization, but a local account does not make Windows telemetry-free and does not block individual Microsoft services. You can still sign in separately to OneDrive, Edge sync, Microsoft Store, Office, Xbox, or another service when that service requires it.
How should you secure a new local Windows account?
Use a strong, unique password and do not leave the password blank. A local password may be harder to recover than a Microsoft-account password, so store recovery information securely and arrange independent backups.
Recommended Free Tools
- Create a separate standard user for everyday work when practical.
- Use the local administrator account only when administrative privileges are needed.
- Limit the number of local administrators.
- Turn on Windows Update after setup.
- Confirm that Windows Security and the manufacturer’s device drivers are functioning.
- Back up important files independently; a local account is not a backup system.
- Check the locations of Desktop, Documents, and Pictures so files are not unintentionally placed in a cloud-synchronized folder later.
Microsoft’s local-account security guidance states that local-account permissions apply to the local device and do not automatically provide access to network resources. Microsoft also recommends using a standard account for routine work and limiting local administrator accounts.
What if neither command works?
If both commands fail, the Windows image may have changed the OOBE routes. Follow this recovery sequence rather than repeatedly trying unverified registry edits or random commands from videos.
Also popular on Amazon
- 【Lag-free & Efficient】Stable and reliable connection of wireless keyboard and mouse is up to 10m(33ft). This combo share a nano USB receiver, no need to take up additional USB ports (Also the wireless keyboard and mouse can also be used separately). Plug and play, no software needed,convenient and efficient.
- 【Quiet & Type in Comfort】Wireless keyboard come with adjustable height tilt legs to increase comfort and prevent your wrists injury when typing for a long time.Our wireless keyboard adopts a silent structure. Soft membrane keys provide a quiet and comfortable typing experience.The wireless mouse is quiet without any clicking sound also.So whether at home or in the office, you can use this combo as you please without worrying about disturbing others.
- 【Full Size Keyboard】This keyboard saves desktop space while retaining its full size.The full size wireless keyboard with numeric keypad and 12 multimedia shortcut keys, such as play/ pause, volume increase and decrease, and search, to help you improve work efficiency.
- 【Auto Power Saving Function】Wireless keyboard and mouse have a smart auto-sleep mode to save power for long battery life. They will enter sleep mode after stop using a while(Refer to the instructions for details). Unplug the receiver or after the PC shutdown, they will enter sleep mode too.You can press any keys to wake. (battery life may vary based on user and computing conditions)
- 【Comfortable Optical Mouse】This silent wireless mice provides 3 adjustable DPI (800/1200/1600) to meet your different needs in terms of sensitivity.The compact lightweight design of wireless mouse and a hand-friendly contoured shape for all-day comfort, and smooth, precise tracking. Very suitable for office and daily use.
- Try Shift + Fn + F10, use a wired USB keyboard, and confirm that the network or Microsoft-account screen is visible.
- Disconnect Ethernet and Wi-Fi completely, then retry the direct
ms-cxhmethod. - Retry
OOBEBYPASSNROwhile offline. - If the PC has already completed setup, create or switch to a local account through Windows Settings.
- If you are performing a clean installation, use a current Windows installation image. Microsoft’s Windows 11 installation-methods guidance covers supported installation options.
- For advanced users creating installation media, consider the official Rufus utility only after backing up the drive and understanding that its options can change between releases.
Rufus is not necessary for a new PC that only needs a local account. Installation-media customization can erase the internal drive, use the wrong ISO or edition, create driver complications, and require additional backup and activation checks. Try the built-in OOBE methods first.
What if Windows reconnects automatically?
Unplug Ethernet and temporarily disable or forget the Wi-Fi connection. Some PCs reconnect to a remembered wireless network during setup, which can return Windows to the online-account screen. If the wireless adapter cannot be disabled from the keyboard, disconnect the access point only if doing so is appropriate for other people using the network, then restart setup while the PC remains offline.
How do you switch to a local account after using a Microsoft account?
If Windows setup is already complete, open Settings > Accounts > Your info and select Sign in with a local account instead, if that option is available. Follow the prompts to create the local username and password, then sign out and sign in to the new local profile.
Another option is to create a separate local user under Settings > Accounts > Other users. Verify files, application access, and permissions before removing the original account. Move or back up files first, especially if Desktop, Documents, or Pictures are currently connected to OneDrive.
Removing a Microsoft-linked Windows account from one PC does not delete the Microsoft account itself. Windows account removal and Microsoft-account deletion are separate actions. The exact Settings labels can vary by Windows 11 release and display language; Microsoft’s account-switching instructions describe the supported conversion route.
Should you use a fake email address instead?
No. A deliberately invalid or disposable email address is not a clean substitute for a local account. Fake account details can create confusing recovery, verification, and sign-in behavior, while the two OOBE methods are specifically intended to reach local-account setup when the Windows image still supports them.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteWhat should you expect after choosing a local account?
A local account does not prevent normal Windows use. You can connect to Wi-Fi later, install ordinary desktop applications, and sign in to individual apps when needed. The main difference is that Windows does not automatically connect the login to Microsoft cloud services.
Also popular on Amazon
- 【Ergonomic Comfort – Perfect for Long Workdays.】The keyboard features a adjustable height tilt legs and a ergonomic design, allowing you to set the perfect typing angle to reduce wrist strain. The mouse’s symmetrical ultra-slim shape fits both left and right hands naturally. Both keyboard and mouse keep you comfortable and productive through marathon sessions.
- 【Whisper-Quiet Operation – Ideal for Shared or Open Spaces】The silent mouse and low-noise keyboard let you click and type without disturbing others. No more annoying clicking sounds during video calls or focused work – just smooth, quiet performance that respects the people around you when you are at home office, library, or an open-plan workspace.
- 【Smart Power Efficiency – Never Worry About Battery Life】With an auto-sleep function, battery level indicator, and energy-saving design, this keyboard mouse combo keeps working when you need it. The power indicator alerts you before power runs low, so you’ll never be caught off guard in the middle of an important task, suitable for student or freelancer moving between coffee shops, classes, and home. The wireless keyboard requires one AAA battery, and the wireless mouse requires one AA battery.
- 【Universal System Compatibility – One Set for All Your Devices】Wireless keyboard and mouse works seamlessly with Windows 11/10/8/7, Mac OS, Chrome OS, and Linux. No driver hunting or compatibility worries – just plug and play. And compatible with laptop desktop PC computer notebook Chromebook Mac MacBook iMac and more. The full-size 104-key layout ensures you have all the functions you need, no matter the platform.
- 【One Shared USB Receiver for Keyboard and Mouse – True Plug-and-Play Convenience】The mouse stores a single 2.4GHz USB receiver right inside its body, so you’ll never lose it. Use the receiver to connect both the keyboard and the mouse simultaneously – or use each device separately if needed. With reliable, lag-free wireless performance up to 10 meters (33 feet), you can control your screen from across the room, perfect for a TV or projector for entertainment.
You will not automatically receive the same Microsoft-account-based synchronization and backup experience. OneDrive may not be connected, settings may not synchronize between devices, and Microsoft Store or other services may request a separate sign-in. Arrange another backup method for important files.
As of August 16, 2026, the most practical initial-setup choices are the direct ms-cxh:localonly route and the offline OOBEBYPASSNRO route. Microsoft may change either internal OOBE path in a later Windows 11 update, so the correct recovery plan is to try the other method or complete normal setup and switch to a local account afterward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I set up Windows 11 Home without a Microsoft account?
Windows 11 Home may allow a local account through a build-dependent OOBE command, but neither Home nor Pro guarantees identical behavior across every Windows 11 build and manufacturer image. Disconnect the PC from the internet and try start ms-cxh:localonly first, followed by OOBEBYPASSNRO if needed.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Does a local Windows account prevent OneDrive or Microsoft Store use?
No. A local Windows account does not prevent OneDrive, Microsoft Store, Edge sync, Office, Xbox, or other Microsoft services from being used separately. Those services may simply require their own sign-in.
What should I do if OOBEBYPASSNRO is not recognized?
If OOBEBYPASSNRO returns an error, the Windows image may no longer contain or accept that older setup mechanism. Try start ms-cxh:localonly, remain offline, or complete setup with a Microsoft account and switch to a local account afterward.
Can I change a Microsoft account to a local account after Windows setup?
Usually, open Settings > Accounts > Your info and choose Sign in with a local account instead, if available. Back up files and check OneDrive locations before removing or replacing the original profile.
The Bottom Line
Bottom line: Disconnect the new Windows 11 PC from the internet, open Command Prompt at the Microsoft-account or network screen, and try start ms-cxh:localonly. If that fails, try OOBEBYPASSNRO while remaining offline. Both routes are version-sensitive; if neither works, finish normal setup and switch to a local account through Settings.
