Bypassing Windows 11 Internet Requirement Using the OOBE\BYPASSNRO Command
This guide explains how to install Windows 11 without an internet connection by using the OOBE\BYPASSNRO command to skip the mandatory online account login, including step‑by‑step instructions and screenshots for both virtual machines and physical PCs.
Microsoft has been testing a requirement in Windows 11 that forces users to connect to the internet and sign in with a Microsoft account during installation; this restriction now applies to both Home and Pro editions.
Users attempting installation in a virtual machine discovered that even removing the network adapter does not allow the setup to continue, but the OOBE\BYPASSNRO command can bypass the online check.
Steps to bypass:
1. When the installer reaches the network connection screen, press Shift+F10 to open a command prompt.
2. Type OOBE\BYPASSNRO and press Enter.
3. The system will immediately restart; on the next network screen the online requirement is skipped, allowing offline installation.
If you only want to create a local account, the same method works because without a network the system cannot force a Microsoft account login. Note that on Windows 11 Home, a Microsoft account is still required when online, and recent updates appear to enforce this for Pro as well.
Previously, entering a dummy email such as [email protected] could also bypass the login, though it is unclear if this still works.
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