🖥️ How to Set Up Windows 11 with a Local Account (and Why You Might Want To)

Microsoft really wants you to use a Microsoft account when setting up Windows 11. But what if you value privacy more than cloud convenience? Or you're setting up a PC for someone else and don’t want your personal data tied to it? Good news: you can still create a local account—and this guide will show you how.

🚫 Why Skip the Microsoft Account?

Using a Microsoft account links your PC to the cloud, syncing settings, files, and preferences across devices. While convenient, it also means:

• Your data is stored remotely.

• OneDrive may automatically back up your files.

• You’re tied into Microsoft’s ecosystem.

A local account, on the other hand:

• Stores data only on the device.

• Doesn’t sync with other PCs.

• Keeps your setup private and offline.

🛠️ Method 1: Use the ms-cxh:localonly Command

This method works during a fresh installation of Windows 11.

Steps:

1. Create Installation Media: Use Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool to write Windows 11 to a USB drive (8GB+).

2. Boot from USB: Restart your PC and boot from the USB drive.

3. Start Installation: Proceed through the setup until you reach the country selection screen.

4. Open Command Prompt: Press Shift + F10.

5. Enter Command: Type start ms-cxh:localonly and hit Enter. This may reboot your PC.

6. Disable Internet: At the sign-in screen, press Shift + F10 again and type ipconfig /release.

7. Create Local Account: Enter a username and password (optional but recommended), then complete the setup.

🧰 Method 2: Use Rufus to Preconfigure a Local Account Install

Rufus simplifies the process by modifying the installation media.

Steps:

1. Download Rufus: Get it from rufus.ie.

2. Insert USB Drive: Plug in your external drive.

3. Select ISO: Choose your Windows 11 ISO file.

4. Modify Settings: Check “Remove requirement for an online Microsoft account.”

5. Burn ISO: Click Start and confirm data deletion.

6. Install Windows: Boot from the USB and follow the prompts.

7. Disable Internet: At the sign-in screen, use ipconfig /release again.

8. Create Local Account: Enter your desired username and password.

🔄 Already Using a Microsoft Account? Add a Local One

You can still switch to a local account post-installation.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings → Accounts → Other Users.

2. Click Add Account.

3. Choose “I don’t have this person’s sign-in information”.

4. Select “Add a user without a Microsoft account”.

5. Enter username, password, and security questions.

Now you can log out and sign in with your new local account.

🧠 Final Thoughts

Microsoft may nudge you toward cloud integration, but you still have control. Whether you're a privacy advocate, setting up a PC for someone else, or just prefer simplicity, a local account gives you a clean slate—no strings attached.

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