How to Create a Local Account During Windows 11 Home Setup in Late 2025
- Michael Cote
- Nov 20
- 3 min read
Setting up a new Windows 11 Home PC usually means signing in with a Microsoft account. But what if you want to keep things simple and use a local account instead? In late 2025, Microsoft still requires a Microsoft account during the initial setup for Windows 11 Home, but there is a way to bypass this requirement and create a local account right from the start. I’ll walk you through the exact steps to do this during the Out-Of-Box Experience (OOBE) setup screen.
This guide is for anyone who prefers privacy, offline use, or just wants to avoid linking their PC to a Microsoft account. Keep in mind, this workaround might not last forever, as Microsoft plans to remove it in future updates. Use it wisely and understand that support options could be limited if you choose to bypass the standard login process.
Windows 11 Home setup screen asking to connect to a network
Why Choose a Local Account on Windows 11 Home?
Windows 11 Home encourages users to sign in with a Microsoft account to unlock features like OneDrive, Microsoft Store access, and syncing settings across devices. However, some users want to avoid this for several reasons:
Privacy concerns: Avoid sharing data with Microsoft.
Offline use: Use the PC without internet or cloud services.
Simplicity: Keep the login process straightforward without extra accounts.
Control: Manage user accounts locally without external dependencies.
If you fall into any of these categories, setting up a local account during the initial Windows 11 Home setup is a smart choice.
How to Bypass Microsoft Account Login and Create a Local Account
During the OOBE setup, Windows 11 Home insists on signing in with a Microsoft account. Here’s how to bypass that requirement:
Step 1: Reach the Network Connection Screen
When you start your new Windows 11 Home PC, proceed through the setup screens until you reach the "Let's connect you to a network" prompt. This is where Windows asks you to connect to the internet.
Step 2: Open Command Prompt
At this screen, press Shift + F10 on your keyboard. This opens a Command Prompt window, giving you access to system commands during setup.
Step 3: Run the Local Account Command
In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
```
start ms-cxh:localonly
```
This command triggers the option to create a local account, bypassing the Microsoft account login requirement.
Step 4: Complete Local Account Setup
After running the command, the setup will switch to a local account creation screen. Here, you can:
Enter your desired username.
Set a password (optional but recommended).
Complete the rest of the setup as usual.
Once done, Windows 11 Home will finish the installation using your local account.
Important Considerations When Using This Workaround
This method works for now but comes with some caveats:
Microsoft may disable this bypass in future updates. If you rely on this method, be prepared for changes.
Limited support: Microsoft support might not assist with issues on devices set up without a Microsoft account.
Feature limitations: Some Windows features tied to Microsoft accounts won’t be available, such as syncing settings or using Microsoft Store apps that require sign-in.
Security: Local accounts do not have the same recovery options as Microsoft accounts. Make sure to remember your password.
Windows 11 login screen displaying option to sign in with a local account
What to Do After Setup with a Local Account
Once your Windows 11 Home PC is set up with a local account, here are some tips to keep your system secure and functional:
Create a strong password for your local account to protect your data.
Set up a PIN or Windows Hello if your device supports it, for easier and secure sign-in.
Manually update apps and drivers since some updates may require Microsoft Store access.
Backup your data regularly because local accounts lack cloud backup features.
Consider creating a recovery drive to troubleshoot issues without Microsoft account access.
Final Thoughts on Using a Local Account with Windows 11 Home
Using a local account on Windows 11 Home in late 2025 is still possible but requires a bit of technical know-how during setup. The Shift + F10 command prompt trick lets you bypass the Microsoft account login and create a local account instead. This method respects your choice for privacy and simplicity but comes with trade-offs in terms of features and support.
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