Windows 11 ohne Internet installieren Image © PCMasters.deWindows 11 ohne Internet installieren (Image © PCMasters.de)

Offline installation: Install Win 11 without Internet

If the setup stops at the network screen and does not continue:

  • 1.Open the command window: Press Shift + F10 (Fn + Shift + F10 on some laptops).
  • 2.execute the bypass command: Type oobe\bypassnro and press Enter. The PC will restart.
  • 3.continue without network: Select “I have no internet**” on the network selection screen.
    1. limited setup**: Click “Continue with limited setup” to complete the OOBE and create a local account.

With this method, you avoid network processes that terminate tasks - which often only leads to a loop - and use Microsoft's offline process.

Lokales KontoLokales Konto (Image © PCMasters.de)

Local account

If you are online but want to skip the Microsoft account, you have other options:

1st option

  • Simulate offline**: Temporarily disconnect the WLAN connection, unplug the Ethernet cable or deactivate the router. Then apply the above oobe\bypassnro procedure and continue with the limited setup.

2nd option

  • Invalid/locked credentials: When prompted for the Microsoft account, enter a known invalid or locked account and any password. After Windows fails to log in, the setup will display the path to the offline account so you can create a local user.

3rd option

  • Select “For work or school” during setup.
  • Open sign-in options and select “Join a domain instead”.
  • Windows will then display the screen for creating a local account (username, password, security questions).

Tip: If you only see the process for “personal use”, go back one step and change to the “Work/School” path to see the option to join the domain in the Pro editions.

Rufus USB: Optimize OOBE prompts

If you regularly deploy Windows, you can pre-apply OOBE optimizations (such as disabling online account requirements) to the USB installer by creating installation media with Rufus. This reduces manual steps and ensures a consistent process on all computers.

Quick troubleshooting

  • Shift + F10 does not work: Try Fn + Shift + F10 or check the status of the function key lock in the BIOS.
  • No “I have no internet ” button: You probably did not run oobe\bypassnro or the system was not rebooted. Repeat the command.
  • Driver missing: Continue offline, complete the setup with a local account and then install the LAN/WLAN drivers from the manufacturer's media or a USB stick.