Under DNS encryption , select . 3. Setting Up a VPN (Virtual Private Network) Go to Settings > Network & internet > VPN . Click Add VPN .
During the OOBE, Windows 11 Pro scans your hardware for available network adapters. If you are setting up a custom-built PC, a newly released laptop, or a virtual machine, the default Windows installation media may not include the specific network drivers required for your motherboard or wireless card.
Windows 11 Pro natively supports IKEv2, L2TP, and SSTP VPNs. Using the aka.ms/networksetup shortcut:
Because aka.ms is a Microsoft service, it is inherently safe. However, cybercriminals sometimes create lookalike domains. Follow these rules: aka.ms networksetup windows 11 pro
The documentation linked by aka.ms/networksetup heavily relies on Command Prompt. Since you are on Windows 11 Pro, open (right-click Start button > Terminal (Admin)).
Once it reboots back to the network setup screen, you will see a new clickable option:
Sometimes, the pre-installed drivers struggle with range, so move closer to the source to finish setup. How to Bypass Network Requirements (OOBE\BypassNRO) Under DNS encryption , select
Leo followed it step by step. First, the page told him to open Terminal as administrator—not the plain PowerShell, but the new Windows Terminal with tabs. He right-clicked the Start button, felt a flicker of power. Then, line by line:
During the initial "Let's connect you to a network" screen, Windows 11 Pro will look for: Automatically detected if a cable is plugged in. Wi-Fi: A list of available networks should appear.
The URL aka.ms/networksetup is an official Microsoft short link (vanity URL). Microsoft uses the aka.ms domain to redirect users directly to specific settings pages, documentation, or cloud configuration portals within the Microsoft ecosystem. Click Add VPN
Setting up a new Windows 11 Pro machine is designed to be a streamlined experience, but it often hits a snag at the "Let’s connect you to a network" screen. Microsoft mandates an internet connection for the initial setup, which can be problematic if you are dealing with driver issues, lack Wi-Fi, or prefer to set up a local account rather than a Microsoft Account.
You might boot up your fresh Windows 11 Pro desktop only to find the Wi-Fi list empty or the Ethernet icon showing a globe symbol (indicating "No Internet"). In these cases, the link serves as a structured starting point to diagnose whether the issue lies with the router, the ISP, or the computer’s drivers.
to create a local user account without needing a Microsoft account or an active connection. Alternative Method for Windows 11 Pro
If no networks appear, your device may be missing the necessary network drivers (common on new custom builds). 🛠️ How to Bypass the Internet Requirement
The aka.ms/networksetup shortcut directs users to Microsoft resources for configuring and troubleshooting internet connections on Windows 11 Pro, covering setup, network profiles, and advanced settings. Key steps include selecting network profiles, enabling file sharing, or running network diagnostics to resolve connectivity issues Microsoft Support . For full details and troubleshooting guides, visit Microsoft Support