Have you ever needed to give someone more control over a Windows 11 computer? Maybe a family member needs to install apps, or a coworker needs access to system settings. In that case, you’ll want to give them administrator rights.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions on how to give admin rights to a user in Windows 11. Don’t worry—it’s easier than you think!
What Are Admin Rights in Windows 11?
Before diving into the steps, let’s clear up what “admin rights” really mean.
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Administrator rights allow a user to make changes to the system.
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They can install and uninstall apps, change settings, manage other accounts, and more.
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Without admin rights, users are limited to basic tasks like browsing, creating files, or using already-installed apps.
Think of it like renting an apartment: a standard user is a tenant, while an administrator is the landlord who can remodel and change locks.
Why Would You Give Admin Rights to a User?
You might want to grant admin rights if:
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A user needs to install apps or updates.
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Someone needs to manage device security or network settings.
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You’re setting up a shared family computer and want equal access for everyone.
⚠️ Warning: Giving admin rights means the user can make big changes—even accidentally delete files or affect system performance. Always grant it carefully.
Different Ways to Give Admin Rights in Windows 11
Windows 11 gives you multiple methods to assign administrator privileges. Here are the main ones:
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Using Settings (Easiest way)
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Using Control Panel
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Using Computer Management
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Using Command Prompt (CMD)
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Using PowerShell
Method 1: Give Admin Rights via Settings
This is the most user-friendly way.
Step 1: Open Settings
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Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
Step 2: Navigate to Accounts
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Go to Accounts > Family & other users.
Step 3: Select the User
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Under Other users, find the account you want to modify.
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Click on it, then select Change account type.
Step 4: Change Account Type
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In the pop-up menu, change from Standard User to Administrator.
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Click OK.
✅ That’s it! The user now has administrator rights.
Method 2: Give Admin Rights via Control Panel
The classic method—still works in Windows 11.
Step 1: Open Control Panel
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Press Windows + S, type Control Panel, and open it.
Step 2: Go to User Accounts
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Click User Accounts > User Accounts again.
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Select Manage another account.
Step 3: Choose the User
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Select the account you want to modify.
Step 4: Change Account Type
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Click Change the account type.
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Select Administrator > Change Account Type.
Method 3: Give Admin Rights via Computer Management
Great for advanced users managing multiple accounts.
Step 1: Open Computer Management
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Right-click the Start button and choose Computer Management.
Step 2: Go to Local Users and Groups
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Expand Local Users and Groups > Users.
Step 3: Open User Properties
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Right-click the user > select Properties.
Step 4: Add to Administrators Group
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Go to the Member Of tab.
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Click Add, type Administrators, then click OK.
Method 4: Give Admin Rights via Command Prompt (CMD)
For those who love typing commands!
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Admin
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Press Windows + S, type cmd, then choose Run as administrator.
Step 2: Type the Command
(Replace “username” with the actual user’s name.)
Step 3: Confirm
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You should see “The command completed successfully.”
Method 5: Give Admin Rights via PowerShell
Another command-line option.
Step 1: Open PowerShell as Admin
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Press Windows + X > select Windows Terminal (Admin).
Step 2: Type the Command
Step 3: Verify
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Run this command to check if it worked:
How to Remove Admin Rights (If Needed)
Made a mistake? Don’t worry—you can reverse it.
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Follow the same steps as above but change the account type back to Standard User.
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In CMD or PowerShell, use:
Tips for Managing Admin Accounts Safely
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Always keep at least one admin account (yours).
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Don’t give admin rights to every user—only trusted ones.
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Set up a strong password for admin accounts.
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Regularly review who has admin privileges.
Conclusion
Giving admin rights in Windows 11 is straightforward—you can do it via Settings, Control Panel, Computer Management, CMD, or PowerShell. The easiest way is through Settings, but advanced users may prefer command-line tools.
Remember, with great power comes great responsibility! Only grant admin access when absolutely necessary, and always keep your own administrator account secure.
FAQs
1. Can I give admin rights to a Microsoft account user in Windows 11?
Yes, you can change both local and Microsoft account users to administrators through Settings.
2. How do I know if a user already has admin rights?
Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users. It will show whether an account is “Administrator” or “Standard User.”
3. Can a standard user install apps without admin rights?
No, installing most apps requires administrator approval.
4. How many administrator accounts can I have in Windows 11?
You can have multiple, but it’s best to limit them for security reasons.
5. Is it safe to give admin rights to a child account?
Not recommended—child accounts should remain standard for safety.