If you’re a Windows power user, system administrator, or just someone who likes to manage their computer manually, you’ll often need access to Administrative Tools — now called Windows Tools in Windows 11. These tools include essential utilities like Event Viewer, Task Scheduler, Disk Cleanup, Services, Performance Monitor, and more.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to open Administrative Tools in Windows 11, using every method available — from the Start menu and Control Panel to command-line shortcuts.
Summary: Key Takeaways
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In Windows 11, Administrative Tools has been renamed to Windows Tools.
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You can open it through Start, Control Panel, File Explorer, or Run commands.
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The folder contains classic utilities for managing system performance, storage, and security.
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Multiple quick-access methods are available depending on your workflow.
What Are Administrative Tools in Windows 11?
Administrative Tools are a collection of advanced utilities designed for system management and maintenance. In Windows 11, Microsoft renamed the folder to Windows Tools, but it includes the same utilities as before.
Common Tools You’ll Find
| Tool | Function |
|---|---|
| Event Viewer | View system logs and errors. |
| Task Scheduler | Automate tasks and maintenance. |
| Services | Start or stop background services. |
| Performance Monitor | Track CPU, memory, and disk usage. |
| Computer Management | Manage disks, users, and device settings. |
| System Configuration (msconfig) | Control startup and boot options. |
| Windows Memory Diagnostic | Test system memory for errors. |
These tools help you monitor performance, fix issues, and maintain overall system health.
How to Open Administrative Tools in Windows 11
Let’s go step-by-step through all the ways to access these tools.
Method 1: Open Administrative Tools (Windows Tools) via Start Menu
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Press the Windows key or click the Start button.
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In the search bar, type Windows Tools.
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Click the result under Best match.
You’ll see a folder containing all administrative utilities.
👉 Shortcut: You can right-click Windows Tools and select Pin to Start or Pin to Taskbar for faster access.
Method 2: Open from the Control Panel
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Press Windows + S and type Control Panel.
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Select Control Panel from the results.
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Change View by: to Large icons or Small icons.
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Click Windows Tools (formerly Administrative Tools).
This opens the same folder with shortcuts to all utilities.
Method 3: Open from File Explorer
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Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
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In the address bar, copy and paste:
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Press Enter.
This takes you directly to the Windows Tools directory.
Method 4: Use the Run Command
The Run dialog is one of the fastest ways to access system utilities.
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Press Windows + R to open Run.
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Type:
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Press Enter.
You’ll immediately see the Administrative Tools (Windows Tools) window.
Method 5: Access Through Settings
While not direct, you can open many administrative utilities via Settings.
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Press Windows + I to open Settings.
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Search for tools like Performance Monitor or Event Viewer in the search bar.
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Click the result to open that specific tool.
Method 6: Using Command Prompt or PowerShell
You can launch most administrative utilities via command line.
Open Command Prompt or PowerShell, then type one of these commands:
| Tool | Command |
|---|---|
| Control Panel (Administrative Tools) | control admintools |
| Computer Management | compmgmt.msc |
| Services | services.msc |
| Event Viewer | eventvwr.msc |
| Task Scheduler | taskschd.msc |
| Performance Monitor | perfmon |
| System Configuration | msconfig |
This method is especially handy for IT pros and power users who prefer keyboard shortcuts.
Method 7: Create a Desktop Shortcut for Quick Access
If you frequently use Administrative Tools, create a shortcut:
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Right-click your desktop → New > Shortcut.
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In the location box, type:
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Name it Windows Tools.
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Click Finish.
You can now access it from your desktop instantly.
Method 8: Use Windows Search Commands (Shortcut Names)
Press Windows + S and type the name of any tool directly — for example:
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Event Viewer
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Services
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Task Scheduler
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Computer Management
Windows will find the utility instantly without opening the full folder.
Bonus: List of Essential Administrative Tools for Everyday Use
| Tool Name | Description | Shortcut Command |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Management | Combines several utilities (Disk Management, Device Manager, etc.) | compmgmt.msc |
| Event Viewer | View logs and troubleshoot issues | eventvwr.msc |
| Task Scheduler | Automate recurring tasks | taskschd.msc |
| Performance Monitor | Analyze system performance | perfmon |
| Services | Manage system services | services.msc |
| Local Security Policy | Adjust security rules (Pro only) | secpol.msc |
| System Configuration | Manage startup and boot settings | msconfig |
Troubleshooting: Can’t Find Administrative Tools?
If Windows Tools doesn’t appear in your Start menu:
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Ensure your Windows 11 installation is up to date.
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Check this folder manually:
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If missing, use System File Checker (sfc /scannow) to repair system components.
Best Practices for Using Administrative Tools
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Use with caution: Some utilities (like Services or Registry Editor) can affect system behavior.
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Run as Administrator: Right-click tools and select Run as administrator for full access.
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Create a restore point: Before making configuration changes, always create a restore point.
Conclusion: Accessing Administrative Tools in Windows 11
In Windows 11, Microsoft renamed Administrative Tools to Windows Tools, but the utilities inside remain essential for system management. Whether you prefer using the Start menu, Control Panel, File Explorer, or command-line methods, you now know multiple ways to access them quickly.
These tools are the “control center” for advanced users — helping you monitor performance, manage storage, and troubleshoot issues like a pro.
FAQs: How to Open Administrative Tools in Windows 11
1. Where are Administrative Tools located in Windows 11?
They are located in:
2. What’s the difference between Administrative Tools and Windows Tools?
They’re the same — Microsoft simply renamed Administrative Tools to Windows Tools in Windows 11.
3. Can I pin Administrative Tools to the Start menu?
Yes. Right-click Windows Tools and select Pin to Start or Pin to Taskbar.
4. How can I open specific tools like Services or Event Viewer quickly?
Use Run commands such as services.msc or eventvwr.msc.
5. Do I need admin rights to use these tools?
Some tools require administrator privileges to modify system settings.