Who This Affects and What It Does
This guide is for anyone setting up a new Windows 10 or 11 computer who wants to create a local account instead of signing in with a Microsoft account. By following the two steps below at the Microsoft sign-in screen, you can complete setup using a local account only.
Before You Begin
You will need access to the keyboard on the computer you are setting up. No additional software, internet connection, or Microsoft credentials are required to complete these steps.
Steps to Bypass the Microsoft Account Sign-In
- When the Windows setup process reaches the Microsoft sign-in screen, press Shift + F10 on your keyboard. A Command Prompt window will open.
- In the Command Prompt window, type the following exactly as shown and then press Enter:
start ms-cxh:localonly
Windows will redirect you to the local account creation flow, allowing you to finish setup without a Microsoft account.
Need Help?
If these steps do not work as expected or you need assistance with your new computer setup, the team at Advanced Computer Solutions is ready to help. Contact ACS here.
Common questions
Will skipping the Microsoft account sign-in affect how Windows works?
You will still have a fully functional Windows installation. The difference is that your user profile will be a local account tied only to that computer, rather than a Microsoft account linked to online services.
What if the Shift + F10 shortcut does not open a Command Prompt?
Some keyboards, particularly on laptops, require you to hold the Fn key as well. Try pressing Shift + Fn + F10. If the Command Prompt still does not appear, contact your IT support team for assistance.
Can I use these steps on both Windows 10 and Windows 11?
Yes. This method applies to the out-of-box setup experience on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.