This article explains how to install and set up Windows 11 without an internet connection.
Unfortunately, Windows 11 now requires an internet connection to finish its initial out-of-box experience setup (OOBE) for the Home and Pro editions, starting with the latest Insider Preview builds.
Microsoft encourages using Microsoft’s online account when setting up Windows 11 accounts. However, during the initial setup, when Windows detects no internet connection, it will redirect you to the “Oops, you’ve lost internet connection” page.
With the current Windows 11 setup, users can skip Microsoft’s online account and continue offline with a local account. Still, after the feature is released to all builds, the option to skip a Microsoft account and create an offline account will no longer work.
You will not be able to continue without an internet connection. However, there’s a workaround to get past this page without an internet connection; the steps below will show you how to do that.
How to set up Windows 11 with a local account without an internet connection
As mentioned above, when a new Windows 11 setup detects no internet connection, it will redirect you to the “Oops, you’ve lost internet connection” page. It won’t continue without an internet connection.
There’s a workaround to continue without an internet connection; the steps below show you how.
If you haven’t installed Windows 11, below are some posts that will help you.
- How to install Windows 11 on VirtualBox
- How to upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11
- How to upgrade to Windows 11 with a workaround
- How to upgrade Windows 11 Home to Windows Pro
Below are the steps to get Windows 11 without an internet connection.
Select the language to install, time and currency format, and keyboard input method during the Windows Setup window, and click Next.
After that, click Install now button to start the installation.
Windows will now continue and prompt for a product key to activate Windows. If you have it, type it in the field or click the link that you don’t have a product key to continue with the installation.
Next, select the version of Windows 11 you wish to install and click Next.
After that, accept the end user license agreement and continue.
Next, select which type of installation you want. You can upgrade the previous Windows version or install a new copy. For this tutorial, we’re installing a new Windows 11.
Next, select the Unallocated space and click Next.
Then choose the country or region you are currently located.
Next, choose the keyboard layout or input method for your selected location.
Without an internet connection, you’ll be redirected to a page prompting you to connect to the internet before continuing.
On the “Oops, you’ve lost internet connection” page, press the SHIFT + F10 keys on your keyboard to open the Command Prompt.
On the Command Prompt, type the commands below:
OOBE\BYPASSNRO
After typing the command and pressing Enter, Windows setup will automatically restart with an OOBE with the option to continue without an internet connection.
Click the I don’t have internet link as highlighted below.
Next, click the link that reads Continue with the limited setup, as shown below.
Next, type in the name of your computer and click Next.
After that, choose where and how you will use the Windows device; for personal use or set up for work or school.
Next, choose Offline account if you want to set up a local account on the computer without a Microsoft online account.
Next, type and confirm your password, including security questions.
When you’re done, Windows will reboot several times and complete the setup. After that, you should be able to log in with the password created above.
That should do it!
Conclusion:
- Setting up Windows 11 without an internet connection is achievable through specific steps.
- By using the OOBE bypass command, users can complete the initial setup offline.
- Local accounts can still be created, allowing users to navigate Windows 11 without a Microsoft account.
- This method provides a viable solution for those with limited or no internet access during installation.
- Following the outlined steps ensures a smoother installation experience, even in offline scenarios.
- Always remember to change settings and configurations after setup to fully optimize your Windows experience.
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