Title: Setting Up Your New HP Laptop with Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

Author: Simon

Hi there, Simon here! Are you ready to set up your brand new HP laptop with Windows 11? In this guide, I’ll walk you through each step, including how to bypass the Microsoft login and remove unwanted apps. Let’s get your laptop up and running!

Step 1: Initial Setup

When you turn on your HP laptop, you’ll be greeted with a setup screen. Here, you should select your country or region (I chose the United States) and your keyboard layout. If you don’t have a second keyboard layout, just skip this step.

Step 2: Connect to Wi-Fi

Next, you’ll need to connect to your Wi-Fi network. Enter your password and proceed to the next step, where Windows will check for updates.

Step 3: Accept License Agreement

Once the updates are checked, you’ll need to review and accept the Windows license agreement to move forward.

Step 4: Skip Naming the Device

You have the option to name your device at this point. I chose to skip this step, but you can name it if you prefer.

Step 5: Microsoft Account Login

Windows will prompt you to sign into your Microsoft account. If you don’t have one, you can create it here. For those who do have an account, simply sign in.

Step 6: Setting Up as a New Device

After logging in, you’ll see a list of devices associated with your Microsoft account. I chose to set up my laptop as a new device, but you can restore data from another device if needed.

Step 7: Skip Additional Setups

The setup process includes several additional steps like setting up a PIN, face ID, and customizing your experience for gaming, school, etc. I skipped most of these for a quicker setup.

Step 8: Decline Offers and Check for Updates

You might encounter offers for trials like Microsoft Office or PC games. Feel free to decline these offers and proceed to check for more updates.

Step 9: Finalizing the Setup

After waiting for the final updates and setup processes, you’ll reach the home screen.

Step 10: Switch to a Local Account

To switch to a local account (and thus bypass the Microsoft account login), go to Settings > Accounts > Your Info and select “Sign in with a local account instead”. Follow the prompts to create a local account.

Step 11: Remove Microsoft Account Email

In the Email & Accounts section, remove your Microsoft account email if it’s still listed.

Optional: Uninstall OneDrive

If you prefer not to use OneDrive, you can uninstall it via the Control Panel.

And there you have it! Your HP laptop is now set up with Windows 11, running on a local account without linking to Microsoft services. I hope this guide was helpful. If you found it useful, please give it a like and share it with others who might find it helpful too. Have a great day setting up your new laptop!