How to Windows 11 Setup Without Internet Connection

Why perform a 🪟 Windows 11 offline setup?

Performing a Windows 11 offline setup lets you create a local account instead of using a Microsoft account, which is great for privacy or if you don’t have internet when you start.

What happens when you bypass the internet requirement?

When you bypass the internet requirement during Windows 11 setup, the installer lets you create a local account right away, skipping the need to connect online.

Steps to Install 🪟 Windows 11 Offline

Setting up Windows 11 without an internet connection is possible by using a specific command during the installation process. You’ll proceed with the usual setup steps until you reach the screen asking you to connect to a network, at which point you’ll use a keyboard shortcut to bypass it.

1. Go through the usual setup steps until you see the screen that asks you to connect to the internet.

2. At the screen that asks you to connect to a network, press Shift+F10 on your keyboard. This opens the Command Prompt. Note: This step requires admin privileges.

3. In the black window, type the following command exactly as shown and press Enter:

OOBE\BYPASSNRO

4. Your computer will restart. Once it’s back on the setup screen, you’ll notice a new option: I don’t have internet.

5. Click Continue with the limited setup to proceed without an internet connection.

6. Follow the remaining prompts to name your computer and create a local account.

Choose if you are setting this up for personal use or for work/school.

Select Offline account to create a local profile without a Microsoft online account.

Create your password and set up your security questions.

Windows will finish the setup and restart. You can now log in with your new local account.

Version-Specific Changes: Build 26120 and Beyond

For newer Windows 11 builds like 26120 and later, the network setup is stricter, but the OOBE\BYPASSNRO command is still the best way to do an offline setup.

Troubleshooting ‘No Internet’ Errors

Experiencing ‘no internet’ errors during your Windows 11 offline setup can be frustrating, but usually, it’s a simple fix. Most often, the issue is a small typo in the command you entered, or you might need to install your network drivers after the setup is complete to get online.

• Check the Command: Ensure you typed OOBE\BYPASSNRO without spaces.
• 📊 Task Manager: If the setup hangs, press Shift+F10 and type taskmgr to end non-essential processes.
• Drivers: If you have no internet after setup, you must download network drivers on another PC and transfer them via USB.

Summary

Setting up Windows 11 offline is a great way to keep more control over your privacy. The command lets you skip the mandatory Microsoft account requirement and set up a local account instead. This approach works for most recent builds, including 26120+, ensuring a smooth installation even if you’re not online.