Forum Discussion
How to install Windows 11 without internet or network on a PC?
Hi everyone,
I'm planning to install Windows 11 on a PC, which only has cable connection. My home is a WiFI router. So this PC does not have Internet connection or any network during the installation process. I've heard it's possible to install Windows 11 without Internet, but I'm not sure about the steps involved.
I understand that the typical installation process for Windows 11 often requires an internet connection, especially for the setup of a Microsoft account. Can someone guide me on how to install Windows 11 without network on a PC?
There are a couple of other bypass options out there to help you install Windows 11 without Internet or network. Here is a good example: https://www.cnetie.com/install-windows-11-without-internet
This will save a lot time for Windows 11 installation.
AndreiV31 really solved it!
In the installation phase
just press
Shift+F10
or like in my case
Shift+Fn+F10
to open Command Prompt and type
OOBE\BYPASSNRO
where the two OO:s are letters, not number zeros. Then, press
Enter
and the installer will restart allowing you to install with the option "Continue with limited setup" ie. without internet.
I was installing Windows 11 to virt-manager in order to use Windows applications in Linux via winapps and the installation procedure with KVM VirtIO drivers required an installation without internet connection.
- If you see "I don't have Internet" or "Continue with limited setup" option, you can select it to continue installation by setting up with local account. Later, you can switch to Microsoft account, when you've Internet.
No man. It doesn't let me click anything. This is very frustrating. This requirement for internet is insane. I hate apple but this...this...is enough to make me want to switch. I pay $140 for windows and it is this difficult to get started. I am pretty knowledgeable with computers and even completed many of Microsofts certificate courses. I even have a certificate from Google in IT. This is making me feel like an idiot. Saying that I'm sorry for the rant. Just upset I have a $5k paper weight on my desk.
In case you didn't find out already:
Install Windows 11 Without An Internet Connection - Adamsdesk
- After activating Windows 11, you'll be prompted to create a Microsoft account. Since you don't have an internet connection, you can't create an account onlin. And instead, create a local account by clicking on "No, I want to create a local account" during the setup process.
- I'm not saying it's impossible to use the command prompt to install Windows - I've done it myself, and it can be done! But, if you're not comfortable with the risks and challenges involved, I'd recommend using the more user-friendly installation methods provided by Microsoft.
If you are going to install Windows 11 without internet or network. You'll need a USB drive with at least 8GB of free space to download the Windows 11 ISO file. You can download the ISO file from a friend's PC or create one using another computer with an internet connection. Once you have the ISO file, you can use it to install Windows 11 on your PC without needing an internet connection.
Another way to install Windows 11 without internet is by using a pre-configured ISO that includes all necessary updates and drivers. This method involves creating an updated ISO image with the latest updates and drivers integrated, allowing for an offline installation.
- Download the Windows 11 ISO from the Microsoft website using another computer with internet access.
- Use a tool like NTLite to integrate updates, drivers, and other software into the ISO file. This customization ensures all necessary components are included in the installation media.
- Use Rufus or another similar tool to create a bootable USB drive from the customized ISO.
- Insert the USB drive into your PC, restart, and boot from the USB drive. Follow the prompts to start the Windows 11 installation process.
- Proceed with the installation as usual. Since the ISO is pre-configured with updates and drivers, you won't need an internet connection during the setup process.
This method is particularly useful for systems that require specific drivers not included in the standard Windows 11 installation media. By integrating these components beforehand, you can ensure a smooth installation without needing an internet connection.
