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Having administrator privileges on Windows 10 is essential for performing various tasks such as installing software, changing system settings, and managing user accounts.
Today, I will cover four methods to gain administrator privileges:
- Using Command Prompt
- Windows PowerShell
- Local Users and Groups Management
- Changing account type via Settings
Buckle up and let’s go.
Method 1: Using Command Prompt
To open Command Prompt with administrator rights, press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box, type cmd, and then press Ctrl + Shift + Enter.
This combination ensures that Command Prompt opens with elevated privileges, which are necessary for enabling the administrator account.
Enable Administrator Account
Once the Command Prompt is open with administrator rights, type net user administrator /active: yes and press Enter.
The command activates the built-in administrator account, granting it full administrative rights over the system.
Verify Administrator Account Activation
To verify that the administrator account has been activated, type net user administrator and press Enter. The account status should indicate that it is active.
Deactivate Administrator Account (Optional)
If you no longer need the administrator account, you can deactivate it by typing net user administrator /active:no and pressing Enter.
Method 2: Using Windows PowerShell
To open Windows PowerShell with administrator rights, press Windows + X and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
In the PowerShell window, type net user administrator /active:yes and press Enter.
After running the command, check the status by typing net user administrator and pressing Enter. Ensure the account is marked as active, confirming that it has been successfully enabled.
Method 3: Using Local Users and Groups Management (Windows Pro and Enterprise)
For users of Windows Pro and Enterprise editions, access Local Users and Groups Management by pressing Windows + R, typing lusrmgr.msc, and pressing Enter.
Navigate to Users
Within the Local Users and Groups Management console, navigate to Local Users and Groups, then select Users.
Enable Administrator Account
Double-click on the Administrator account, uncheck the “Account is disabled” option, and click Apply.
Verify Administrator Account Activation
Confirm that the administrator account is active by checking its status in the user list. An active account will be listed without a disabled tag, indicating it is ready for administrative tasks.
Deactivate Administrator Account (Optional)
If you decide to deactivate the administrator account, open its properties again, check “Account is disabled,” and apply the changes. Deactivating the account when not needed helps maintain a secure system environment.
Method 4: Changing Account Type via Settings
Log in with an existing administrator account. Select the Windows Start button, navigate to Settings -> Accounts -> Family & other users. Furthermore, you can go for customization.
Change Account Type
Locate the user’s name, click on it, and select “Change account type.” From the dropdown menu, choose “Administrator” and click OK.
Verify Changes
Log out and then log back in with the user’s account to confirm the changes. The account should now have administrator privileges, allowing for higher-level system management and settings alterations.
Summary
As I stated in the beginning, I covered four methods to obtain administrator privileges on Windows 10: using Command Prompt, Windows PowerShell, Local Users and Groups Management, and changing account type via Settings.
Remember to deactivate the administrator account when not in use to enhance security. For further assistance, refer to additional resources or links provided.
