Users now require a local account with internet connection during Windows 11 installation.
Microsoft is eliminating workarounds that made it possible to use a local account without internet connection during Windows 11 installation. In a new test version of the operating system, the company announces that all known workarounds will be removed, reports The Verge.
No Local Accounts
Until now, users could bypass the mandatory Microsoft account (MSA) login using commands like “bypassnro” or “start ms-cxh:localonly”. These methods are now disabled. According to Microsoft, the workarounds “skipped critical configuration screens,” causing some devices to be incorrectly configured.
From now on, users must complete the installation through the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE), with an active internet connection and a Microsoft account. This applies to both Windows 11 Home and Pro.
Customizing User Folder
Many users actually don’t want to use a Microsoft account, or at least want to be able to change the name of the user folder. The tech giant knows this, as it will soon be possible to customize the default user folder name during installation, whereas currently this requires a command line. With this decision, it accommodates users who prefer more control.