I'm wondering if it's still possible to set up a new laptop without linking it to a Microsoft account, specifically avoiding the need to log in with a Hotmail account or create a new Outlook account with a password. Thanks for any tips on getting around this!
5 Answers
If you want to skip the MS account from the start, press Shift + F10 when setting up, and type 'OOBEBypassNRO'. This will let you choose not to connect to the Internet and set up a local account instead. Just be careful with the case-sensitive commands!
There are workarounds with home and pro licenses that might work for you, though I can't guarantee they still function as intended. Just be aware that tech can shift quickly, so the latest methods might vary.
It seems recent updates changed things, but if you use a USB for installation, you might bypass the MS account requirement altogether. Just be aware that these workarounds can change, so it's good to stay updated!
You can definitely bypass the Microsoft account requirement by using Rufus to create your installation media. Setting up a local account is also possible. It's a straightforward method and might save you some hassle later!
I took the Microsoft account route initially and then just created a local user account with admin rights. It only took a minute to log out of the MS account and into the new one. Honestly, I can't figure out why people stress over this—it’s quick and easy!

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