Microsoft is tightening its grip on Windows 11 by removing a popular workaround that allowed users to skip creating a Microsoft account during the initial setup of their PC.
The tech giant announced in its latest Windows 11 Insider Preview that it will remove the "bypassnro" command - a widely-used script that let users bypass the requirement of connecting to the internet and logging in with a Microsoft account during the Windows setup process.
Microsoft states the change is aimed at enhancing security and user experience, making sure all users complete the setup with internet connectivity and a Microsoft account.
While the bypass command is being disabled in the beta build and will likely reach production versions within weeks, users can still work around it temporarily. During initial setup, pressing Shift + F10 opens a command prompt where users can enter a registry edit command to reactivate the bypass functionality.
This move aligns with Microsoft's recent actions to strengthen its control over the Windows 11 ecosystem. The company has been making it increasingly difficult for users to upgrade to Windows 11 on older PCs that don't support TPM 2.0, while simultaneously pushing Windows 10 users to upgrade before support ends in October.
For IT departments managing multiple computers, alternatives like using unattended.xml automation still exist, though these methods are more complex and less straightforward for average users.
The removal of this bypass method signals Microsoft's commitment to ensuring all Windows 11 users maintain an internet-connected account, leaving fewer options for those who prefer using local accounts or setting up computers without online connectivity.