Forum Discussion
Nobel_Baynes
Jan 03, 2025Steel Contributor
Any way to install Windows 11 with local account for 24H2
I have been installing Windows 11 on multiple PCs and laptops. Some of the are fully compatible with Windows 11 and some of them are not. However, one issue that annoys me is that it takes too much time for waiting the installation completed fully. This is because signing in with a Microsoft account, a lot of staff needs to download and sync from cloud, is this true?
I am interested in upgrading a couple of other computers to 24H2. The waiting time should be much less if I install Windows 11 24H2 with a local account? Is this true? If yes, how can I install Windows 11 without Microsoft account?
- JacksonRobertsonIron Contributor
Installing Windows 11 24H2 (or any version of Windows 11) with a local account isn't inherently "dangerous,"
- Local Account: This is like having a standalone account on your computer. You can use it without connecting to Microsoft’s services. It gives you more privacy since it won’t share as much data with Microsoft, but it also means you won't have access to some neat features that are based on a Microsoft account (like OneDrive integration, syncing settings across devices, or access to Microsoft Store apps).
- Microsoft Account: This is linked to all of Microsoft's online services. If you want a seamless experience with things like cloud storage, syncing your settings, and easier access to apps and services, having a Microsoft account is pretty handy.
My Experience
From what I've seen (and experienced), using a local account can be great for those who value privacy and want to keep their stuff local. But if you're someone who relies on cloud storage or uses multiple Windows devices, you might find it a bit more of a hassle. For instance, I set up a machine with a local account once, and while it felt secure at first, I quickly missed the convenience of features like syncing my desktop and settings across devices.Trade-Offs
- Ease of Access: With a Microsoft account, you can easily reset your password online and recover access if you forget it. A local account might lead to a headache if you forget your password because you won’t have those recovery options.
- Updates and Features: Some features in Windows 11, like certain security features and updates, might be tied to having a Microsoft account. If you’re using a local account, you might miss out on some of these improvements.
- Simplicity: If you plan to use your Windows machine mostly for basic tasks (like browsing, gaming, or working without the need for cloud services), then a local account can keep things simple and straightforward.
- jensstevensCopper Contributor
My Advice is download the Windows 11 24H2 iso from Microsoft website.
Download Rufus to install windows 11 on an USB, there you can exclude all the microsoft requirements.
Please keep in mind that this is only for testing purposes. Microsoft put all these requirements inplace to protect the enduser.
Good luck
- HarodmanIron Contributor
Yes, installing Windows 11 with a local account can indeed speed up the installation process and reduce waiting time, as it won't require syncing settings, files, or other data from a Microsoft account during the installation. Here’s how you can install Windows 11 24H2 using a local account:
1. Create Installation Media:
- If you're using the Media creation tool:
- Choose "Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file)".
- Follow the prompts to create a bootable USB drive.
2. Boot from the Installation Media:
- Insert the USB drive into the PC where you want to install Windows 11.
- Restart the computer and boot from the USB. You may need to press a key (like F12, F2, or Del) to access the boot menu.
3. Start Installation Process:
- Follow the prompts until you reach the screen asking for your Microsoft account.
4. Bypass Microsoft Account Sign-In:
- When you reach the "Sign in with Microsoft" screen, press Shift + F10. This will open the Command Prompt.
- In the Command Prompt, type the following command and press Enter: OOBE\BYPASSNRO
Your PC will restart and take you back to the setup screen. This time, you should see an option to create a local account.
5. Create a Local Account:
- When prompted, select the option to create a local account.
- Follow the instructions to set up your local account by entering a username and password.
6. Continue with Installation:
Complete the rest of the installation process as you normally would.
- WainkusRobertIron Contributor
So you’re gearing up to install Windows 11 24H2 using a local account, huh? Nice choice! Make sure your PC meets the Windows 11 requirements, like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. You don’t want to start the install and hit a wall because your hardware’s not up to snuff. Before you even start the install, ensure your current system is updated. This can save you from potential issues during the installation process. A quick Windows Update can work wonders.
If you’re going the USB route, double-check that you’re using the right medium created with the Windows Media Creation Tool. The tool is pretty straightforward—just follow the prompts and select the right version of Windows.
When setting up, it might be tempting to lean towards a Microsoft account due to all those appealing features, but since you want a local account, make sure to select that option properly. If you accidentally create a Microsoft account, you might have to start over. Hope you can successfully install Windows 11 24H2 using local account.
Don’t rush through the privacy settings screens. Windows 11 has a bunch of options that can impact your experience, so take a moment to customize what you want to share or keep private.