Today, Microsoft has unveiled a new Windows Insider build of Windows 11 in its experimental Dev Channel. This update introduces a series of new features and tweaks aimed at enhancing the overall user experience. Among these changes, one significant update stands out for tech enthusiasts and PC administrators: the removal of the command prompt script known as bypassnro.
The bypassnro script has been a popular tool for users seeking to circumvent the mandatory Microsoft Account sign-in requirement during the setup of new Windows 11 PCs, as well as for fresh installations on existing devices. According to Amanda Langowski, the lead of Microsoft's Windows Insider Program, and Principal Product Manager Brandon LeBlanc, this change is intentional and is intended to improve both security and user experience.
In a recent blog post, Langowski and LeBlanc stated, "We’re removing the bypassnro.cmd script from the build to enhance security and user experience of Windows 11." This update ensures that all users complete the setup process with internet connectivity and a Microsoft Account. While this may streamline the process for many users, it poses challenges for those who prefer not to connect to the internet during setup.
The removal of the bypassnro command complicates the setup for individuals in areas without internet access or those who prefer using a local user account—a feature that previous Windows versions easily supported. Although a Microsoft Account offers several advantages, such as seamless access to Microsoft 365 or OneDrive subscriptions, automated disk encryption, and settings synchronization across multiple devices, some users may find local accounts preferable due to fewer notifications and upsell prompts.
As users adapt to this change, they will need to explore alternative methods to bypass the Microsoft Account requirement. While there are still some relatively straightforward workarounds available, detailed in our comprehensive guide on optimizing a fresh Windows 11 installation, the bypassnro command was notably easy to use and effective for both Home and Pro editions of Windows 11.
It’s important to note that the bypassnro command continues to function in the current stable versions of Windows 11, including the 24H2 update released late last year. The recent changes have exclusively been implemented in the Windows Insider Dev Channel, where Microsoft tests features that are not yet stable enough for public release.
Earlier this month, the Dev Channel transitioned to a new series of build numbers, now in the 26200 series, while the public version of Windows 11 24H2 is identified by the 26100 build numbers, and more stable Insider channels use the 26120 series. As for the bypassnro change, it may not be reflected in public versions of Windows 11 until the anticipated 25H2 update is released later this fall.
