I've heard mixed things about upgrading from Windows 10 to Windows 11, especially regarding Microsoft Accounts. A YouTuber mentioned that starting with version 25H2, you can't bypass the Microsoft Account requirement, and some comments state the same applies to 24H2. If I'm upgrading from a local account without a Microsoft Account, will I be forced to sign in during the upgrade process for both versions? Also, if I do require a Microsoft Account, what happens if I lose access to it or if it gets hacked? Will I be permanently locked out of my PC? Can I just sign in for the upgrade and then switch back to a local account? I'm concerned since my Microsoft Account is an old hotmail address and I'm worried it might get phased out in the future.
2 Answers
I just upgraded to Windows 11 24H2 using an ISO and stayed connected to the internet, and I still managed to bypass the Microsoft Account. I went through the setup like usual, and when it asked for the account, I used the Command Prompt trick. It seems like if you keep your eye out, there are still workarounds available as of now. But yeah, they could change things with future updates.
You can still bypass the Microsoft Account sign-in during the installation by using the Command Prompt. Just disconnect your internet, or when prompted for the Microsoft Account, press Shift + F10 to open the Command Prompt and type in `start ms-cxh:localonly`. This lets you create a local user and continue the setup without an account. Overall, it looks like they’re tightening things up, but for now, the bypass still works!
Or, if you have an old ISO file lying around, that might do the trick too!
That makes sense! I guess it’s good to have options while they still exist.