In yet another episode of Your soul is not enough, we want your data too, Microsoft has made it clear that we need to create a compatible account to install Windows 11. As expected, many users have pushed back against this requirement, sharing various methods to bypass it during installation and generate a local account. Rufus joins them: after helping us skip TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, its new beta includes a block for account creation, and an option that avoids all data collection questions.
Unfortunately, Microsoft and users seem to have entered a new impasse. Redmond's decision is to move forward with the total integration of its products and services, while users want exactly the opposite. This leads to the classic back and forth: every time someone discovers a trick to undo Microsoft's strategies, the company rushes to block it. New trick, new patch. This has happened before, and it will happen again.
Windows 11 has only made the conflict worse. Between its potential for data collection, absurd hardware requirements, and interface regressions, we also have to deal with the mandatory Microsoft account for installing Windows 11 22H2. That's when many voices recommend sticking with Windows 10 or exploring a Linux distro, but there's an alternative: join the Rebel Alliance and use Windows 11 with local accounts. How? With the help of Rufus.
How to install Windows 11 without Microsoft accounts using Rufus
The latest beta of Rufus 3.19 has two interesting new features. The first is the creation of an image that blocks all data collection questions. Rufus sets those values to "Disabled" or "Not allowed", saving time and simplifying installation.
The second is what brings us here: a bypass for the Microsoft account requirement in Windows 11 22H2. However, it doesn't work on its own, and we must disconnect the computer from the Internet for the installer to show the local account interface. If Windows 11 detects an active connection, it will demand account creation, unless...
How to disable Internet in the Windows 11 installer
... we apply a couple of tricks. When the installer asks for account sign-in or creation, press Shift+F10 to open a console, and run ncpa.cpl. This opens Network Connections, where we can temporarily disable all active interfaces. Then go back a step in the Windows 11 installer, and the option to create a local account should appear.
In our tests we used the 21H2 build of Windows 11 Home processed with Rufus 3.19, and what we explained here worked perfectly. The web is full of alternatives, starting with the OOBE\BYPASSNRO shortcut in the system console, or using an account blocked by Microsoft during installation (for example, no@thankyou.com). However, we definitely welcome this Rufus build, which will soon become stable. Installing Windows 11 without a Microsoft account is not impossible.
Access the Rufus beta: Click here.
