New Method Allows Bypassing Microsoft Account in Windows 11

09 Apr 2025

As the technology giant Microsoft continues to streamline its user experience, a new method has emerged, raising eyebrows in the digital community. This technique allows users to sidestep the often-mandatory Microsoft Account setup process during the installation of Windows 11. For users concerned about privacy or those who simply prefer not connecting online accounts to their personal computers, this discovery offers a refreshed sense of autonomy.

Unlocking Local Setup Freedom

Historically, Microsoft has nudged Windows users toward integrating with online services, providing seamless backend updates and cloud storage. However, not everyone is eager to link their operating system to a Microsoft Account. The command "start ms-cxh:localonly" serves as an elegant solution, permitting the creation of a local account during a new Windows 11 setup.

This method appears to function by integrating directly within the existing framework of Windows 11, a notable improvement over earlier workarounds which often proved cumbersome or required additional software. By allowing the user to utilize local credentials, it negates the prompts urging users to sign in with Microsoft credentials. Such an approach respects the user's preference for standalone setups.

Implications for the Future

From a strategic standpoint, this discovery presents an intriguing scenario for Microsoft's development team. While the move towards a cloud-driven ecosystem continues, the persistence of this function may indicate a quiet nod to retaining a portion of user flexibility.

It remains unclear how long this feature will persist. However, because this trick utilizes an integrated command line feature, its longevity might outstrip past tricks. Users who prefer different approaches to software management can capitalize on this to maintain their preferred configurations in Windows 11.

A Simple Solution Prevails

In an increasingly interconnected digital landscape, this method underscores a critical conversation about user autonomy and choice. The balance between a connected experience and user simplicity stands at the forefront of the debate over local versus cloud accounts.

Whether this journey will prompt Microsoft to reconsider its policies remains to be seen, yet the existence of such a straightforward command underscores the nuanced dance between consumer demand and technological advancement.

Close All Windows

Close All Windows download for free to PC or mobile

Quickly close all active windows to declutter your desktop and streamline tasks.

4
556 reviews
3256 downloads

News and reviews about Close All Windows

07 Jan 2026

Essential Steps for Windows 11 Setup and Security

Optimize Windows 11 with a nine-step setup guide: declutter, enhance security, and customize efficiently.

Read more

06 Jan 2026

Windows 11 Falls Short in ThinkPad X220 Benchmarks

Windows 11 underperformed in recent ThinkPad X220 tests, raising concerns over system upgrades and performance efficiency.

Read more

06 Jan 2026

How to Avoid Common Windows Maintenance Mistakes

Maintain Windows effectively by avoiding careless registry edits, unneeded driver updates, and improper system file deletions.

Read more

06 Jan 2026

Windows 11 26H1 Arm PCs to Ship by April 2026

Qualcomm's Snapdragon X2-based PCs with Windows 11 26H1 are set for release by April 2026, optimizing for Arm64 processors.

Read more

06 Jan 2026

Microsoft Ad Accidentally Promotes Chrome on Windows 11

Microsoft's latest Windows 11 ad shows Chrome on the taskbar amid PC gaming promotion, raising questions.

Read more

06 Jan 2026

Windows SE Support Ends in 2026 Due to Low Adoption

Microsoft ends Windows SE in 2026; low adoption drives shift to Windows 11 and AI tools for education.

Read more

06 Jan 2026

Microsoft Ends Support for Key Windows, Office Versions in 2026

Microsoft will discontinue Windows 11 SE, 24H2 and Office 2021 support on 2026-10-13, urging upgrades to newer versions for security updates.

Read more

06 Jan 2026

Benchmark Shows Windows 8.1 Outperforms Windows 11

An independent test found Windows 8.1 excels in performance on a Lenovo ThinkPad, outperforming Windows 11.

Read more

06 Jan 2026

Microsoft Faces Criticism Over Windows 11 Changes

Microsoft's Windows 11 faces user backlash due to design and AI issues, potentially impacting migration from Windows 10.

Read more

06 Jan 2026

Windows 11 Trails in Legacy Hardware Benchmark

Windows 11 underperformed in a benchmark on older Lenovo laptops, with Windows 8.1 emerging as a surprise leader.

Read more