Windows 11 is set to force online setup, but one loophole still works for local install

Microsoft removes local-only Windows setup in latest Insider Preview, but an age check trick could help you out.
The Register on MSN

No account? No Windows 11, Microsoft says as another loophole snaps shut

Workaround sent to the big OOBE in the sky with latest Insider builds Microsoft is closing a popular loophole that allowed users to install Windows 11 without a Microsoft account.… The change has ...
PCMag

Microsoft Makes It Harder to Set Up Windows 11 Without an Account

Microsoft has blocked popular commands used to bypass key Windows 11 setup screens, stating they leave users with a device ...

Best October Prime Day deals on Thunderbolt docks & USB-C hubs

Amazon's October Prime Day 2025 deals on Thunderbolt docks and USB-C hubs are popping up already, so we've rounded up all the ...

Microsoft is plugging more holes that let you use Windows 11 without an online account

Microsoft is cracking down on bypass methods that let Windows 11 installs use a local account, and avoid an internet ...

Microsoft makes it even harder to install Windows 11 without a Microsoft Account or internet

Microsoft really does not want you to use Windows 11 without a Microsoft Account or internet, and the latest builds go the extra mile to block possible bypass methods.

Microsoft triples down and blocks even more Microsoft Account bypasses on Windows 11 — an online account is non-negotiable

Microsoft is once again blocking the ability to bypass a Microsoft Account when setting up a Windows 11 PC for the first time.