Audit Mode is a special Windows setup environment used mainly by IT professionals and manufacturers. Unlike the normal Windows installation that takes you through the OOBE (where you create user accounts, set up privacy options, and connect to Wi-Fi), Audit Mode allows administrators to bypass this process.

Key characteristics of Audit Mode:

• Bypasses OOBE so the system can be configured before end-user access.
• Allows installation of drivers, applications, and updates.
• Enables creating and capturing Windows images for deployment.
• Provides administrator access without creating new user accounts.

You’ll know you are in Audit Mode if:

• You see a System Preparation Tool (Sysprep) window open automatically after login.
• The PC bypasses the OOBE setup process.
• The desktop shows an administrator account with no other user accounts available.

The most straightforward way to exit Audit Mode is by using the built-in Sysprep tool.

1. Boot your PC into Windows 11.
2. When the System Preparation Tool window appears, check the options carefully.
3. Under System Cleanup Action, select:
4. Enter System Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE).
5. Check the box Generalize if you want to remove system-specific data (optional, mostly for deployment).
6. Under Shutdown Options, choose Reboot.
7. Click OK.

If the Sysprep window does not appear automatically or you closed it, you can launch it manually through Command Prompt.

1. Press Windows + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
2. In Command Prompt, type the following command and press Enter: C:\Windows\System32\Sysprep\Sysprep.exe /oobe /reboot
3. Windows will reboot into OOBE, where you can set up your account and finish the installation process.