Changing the administrator in Windows 11 is simpler than it sounds. Whether you’re handing your computer to someone else or just making some changes, you can switch the admin role in a few easy steps. Basically, you’ll need to access the user account settings to change who has administrator privileges. Don’t worry, even if you’re not tech-savvy, this guide will walk you through it smoothly. Here’s how to do it and what you need to know along the way.
How to Change Administrator in Windows 11
Changing the administrator in Windows 11 allows you to assign or reassign admin privileges, necessary for managing settings and software installations. Follow these steps to efficiently switch admin roles.
Step 1: Open Settings
Head over to the Start menu and click on “Settings.”
The Settings app is your gateway to customizing your Windows experience. It’s the place where all your system tweaks begin. Once you open it, you’ll see a menu on the left, guiding you to different sections.
Step 2: Go to Accounts
In the Settings window, select “Accounts” from the sidebar.
This section holds all the keys to managing user accounts. Here, you can find everything related to users, from their personal information to their account types, ensuring you have control over who does what on your PC.
Step 3: Access Family & Other Users
Click on “Family & other users” in the Accounts section.
This part of the menu lets you manage all user accounts, including guests and family members. It’s where you can see who has access to your device and modify their permissions.
Step 4: Select the User
Find the user you want to make an administrator and click on their name.
Choosing a user is straightforward. You’ll see a list of everyone with access to the computer, making it easy to spot who you want to promote to administrator status.
Step 5: Change Account Type
Click on “Change account type” and select “Administrator” from the dropdown menu, then hit OK.
Switching the account type is the final step. By choosing “Administrator,” you’re giving the selected user more control over the system, allowing them to install apps and make significant changes.
After completing these steps, the person you selected will now have administrator privileges on your Windows 11 device. This means they can manage system settings, install updates, and make other administrative changes.
Tips for Changing Administrator in Windows 11
- Consider creating a backup before changing administrative roles, to avoid accidental data loss.
- Only assign administrator privileges to users who absolutely need them to maintain security.
- Regularly review user access to ensure only trusted individuals have admin rights.
- Use strong and unique passwords for administrator accounts to enhance security.
- Keep a list of all users with administrator access in case you need to make changes later.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an administrator account in Windows 11?
An administrator account has higher privileges than a standard user account, allowing the user to make system-wide changes and manage other user accounts.
Can I have more than one administrator on Windows 11?
Yes, you can assign administrator privileges to multiple accounts, allowing several users to manage system settings.
How do I know if I am the administrator?
You can check your account status in the Accounts section of the Settings app. Your account type will be listed as “Administrator” if you have those privileges.
What if I can’t change the account type?
Make sure you are logged in as an administrator. Only users with admin privileges can change other users’ account types.
Can I change back to a standard user after becoming an administrator?
Absolutely, you can adjust your account type at any time through the same settings where you initially changed it.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Go to Accounts.
- Access Family & Other Users.
- Select the User.
- Change Account Type.
Conclusion
Mastering how to change the administrator in Windows 11 is a handy skill that enhances your control over your device’s security and management. Whether you are setting up a new computer for a family member or managing a shared workspace, knowing how to adjust administrative privileges is invaluable. While following these steps, remember that with great power comes great responsibility—only grant admin access to trusted users.
For further reading, explore topics on user account control and security best practices to ensure your computer remains safe and efficient. If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with others who may benefit from knowing how to manage their Windows 11 user accounts. By keeping your device’s administration in check, you’re not just solving a problem; you’re taking charge of your digital world.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.