Changing the administrator on Windows 10 is pretty straightforward. You’ll need to access your computer’s settings, find the right user account, and then modify its type to administrator. This will give the new administrator account all the privileges it needs to manage the device effectively.
How to Change Administrator on Windows 10
In this section, we’ll walk you through the steps to change the administrator on your Windows 10 device. This guide will help you ensure that the new admin account has all the necessary permissions.
Step 1: Open the Settings Menu
To get started, open the Settings menu by clicking the Start button and selecting the gear icon.
Opening the Settings menu is your first step towards changing the administrator. It’s like opening the toolbox before you start fixing something. You can also press the Windows key + I as a shortcut.
Step 2: Navigate to Accounts
Once the Settings menu is open, click on “Accounts.”
The Accounts section is where you’ll manage user information, including changing account types. Think of it as the control center for all user-related settings.
Step 3: Select Family & Other Users
In the Accounts menu, select “Family & other users” from the left-hand side.
Here, you’ll find all the user accounts on your computer. It’s like looking at a roster of everyone who has access to your device.
Step 4: Choose the Account to Change
Under “Other users,” click on the account you want to make an administrator.
Selecting the account is crucial. Make sure you pick the right one, as this will determine who gets administrative privileges.
Step 5: Change Account Type
Click on “Change account type” and then select “Administrator” from the dropdown menu. Click “OK” to confirm.
This step is where the magic happens. By changing the account type to Administrator, you’re giving that account full control over the system.
Step 6: Verify the Changes
Ensure that the selected account now shows as an Administrator in the list.
Verifying the change is like double-checking your work. You want to make sure everything is set correctly before you move on.
After completing these steps, the chosen account will have administrator privileges, allowing the user to install software, change settings, and manage other accounts.
Tips for Changing Administrator on Windows 10
- Always create a backup account with administrative privileges just in case something goes wrong.
- Make sure the new administrator account is secured with a strong password.
- Log out and log back in to ensure the changes take effect.
- Inform the new administrator of their responsibilities and privileges.
- Regularly review account permissions to maintain security.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if the account is now an administrator?
You can verify by going back to the “Family & other users” section in the Settings. The account should display “Administrator” under its name.
Can I have more than one administrator account?
Yes, you can have multiple administrator accounts. Just follow the same steps for each user account you want to change.
What happens if I delete the only administrator account?
If you delete the only administrator account, you won’t be able to make any administrative changes to your computer. Always ensure at least one account has administrative privileges.
Do I need to restart my computer after changing the administrator?
No, you don’t need to restart your computer, but logging out and back in can help ensure the changes take effect.
Can I change the administrator back to a standard user?
Yes, you can change the account type back to a standard user by following the same steps and selecting “Standard User” instead of “Administrator.”
Summary
- Open the Settings menu.
- Navigate to Accounts.
- Select Family & Other Users.
- Choose the account to change.
- Change account type to Administrator.
- Verify the changes.
Conclusion
Changing the administrator on Windows 10 doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a few straightforward steps, you can easily manage account permissions and ensure your system runs smoothly. Remember, having the right administrator in place is crucial for the effective management of your device.
If you’re still unsure or run into issues, Microsoft’s support site offers detailed guides and additional resources. Keeping your system secure and well-managed is essential, so don’t hesitate to reach out for help if needed. Whether you’re setting up a new admin for a work device or managing a family computer, these steps will help you get the job done efficiently.
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.