Microsoft is intensifying its commitment to ensuring that users set up their Windows 11 PCs exclusively through a Microsoft account and an internet connection. This strategic move reflects the company’s belief that these elements are essential for a seamless user experience right from the outset.
Changes in Windows 11 Preview Builds
Recent updates in the Windows 11 preview builds confirm that Microsoft has effectively eliminated several methods that users previously employed to bypass the Microsoft Account setup requirement. Notably, commands such as start ms-cxh:localonly will no longer function in the latest iterations of the operating system. This follows a previous crackdown where Microsoft removed the widely used oobe/bypassnro command, which had allowed users to circumvent the account setup process.
As it stands, attempting to execute the start ms-cxh:localonly command will not yield the local account creation screen that users might expect. Instead, Microsoft has made it unequivocally clear that all Windows 11 users must complete their setup using a Microsoft account and an active internet connection.
While some bypass methods remain available, they now require a more complex approach, such as directly editing the Windows image prior to installation. This involves configuring an unattended install with a local account, a process that is likely to be daunting for the average user.
Although it is possible that new, simpler bypass methods may emerge over time, Microsoft has effectively patched the most recognized and straightforward ways to avoid the account setup requirement in the latest preview builds. As these builds are still in the testing phase, it may take several weeks before these changes are reflected in the production versions of Windows 11.
