Microsoft has officially announced the discontinuation of certain methods that previously allowed users to bypass the Microsoft account requirement during the Out-Of-Box Experience (OOBE) setup for Windows 11. This change, confirmed in a blog post dated October 6, aims to ensure that devices are configured correctly from the outset, aligning with Microsoft’s vision for a more integrated user experience.
Testing the New Setup Restrictions
In recent tests conducted with Windows 11 Build 26120.6772, available exclusively through the Windows Insider Program, it became evident that the familiar workarounds are no longer effective. When attempting to set up a fresh installation of Windows 11, users are now prompted to sign in with a Microsoft account right from the OOBE screen.
The traditional methods, such as entering oobebypassnro or start ms-cxh:localonly in Command Prompt, yielded no success. Instead of bypassing the Microsoft account requirement, these commands either failed to execute or resulted in a reboot back to the same login prompt. Attempts to utilize older tricks, such as oobenetworkconnectionflow, also proved fruitless, leading to a repetitive loop within the OOBE process.
Microsoft’s Rationale Behind the Change
According to Microsoft, the decision to enforce the Microsoft account requirement stems from the belief that a device is not fully configured without it. The company emphasizes that using a local account during OOBE may lead to a suboptimal setup, potentially missing out on essential features and functionalities.
“Users will need to complete OOBE with internet and a Microsoft account to ensure the device is set up correctly,” Microsoft stated. While this marks a significant shift in the setup process, it’s important to note that signing in with a Microsoft account does not have to be a permanent arrangement. Once users reach the desktop, they can opt to create a local account and sign out of the Microsoft account, effectively removing the need for it in future sessions.
As the rollout of these changes progresses, it is anticipated that the updated requirements will be included in future Windows 11 ISOs within the next two to three months. Ongoing testing will continue to explore how Microsoft implements these restrictions, and updates will be provided as new workarounds are discovered.
