Changing the administrator on Windows 10 is a straightforward process. By accessing the settings on your computer, you can manage user accounts and give administrator privileges to a different user. Whether you’re handing over your computer to someone else or just want to switch things up, this guide will help you do it quickly and easily.
Step by Step Tutorial: Changing Administrator on Windows 10
Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to understand that changing the administrator will give the new user full control over the computer. This includes installing software, changing settings, and accessing all files. Make sure you trust the user you’re giving these privileges to.
Step 1: Open Settings
Open the ‘Settings’ app on your Windows 10 computer.
This can be done by clicking on the Start menu and selecting the gear icon. Alternatively, you can press the Windows key + I on your keyboard to open Settings directly.
Step 2: Click on Accounts
Inside Settings, click on the ‘Accounts’ section.
This will take you to a page where you can manage all aspects of user accounts on your computer.
Step 3: Select Family & other users
On the left-hand side, click on ‘Family & other users’.
This is where you can add, remove, and manage user accounts, as well as change their privileges.
Step 4: Choose the user
Under ‘Other users’, select the user you want to make an administrator.
Be sure to select the correct user account, as you’ll be giving them administrative access to your computer.
Step 5: Click on Change account type
After selecting the user, click on the ‘Change account type’ button.
This will open a new window where you can change the user’s account type.
Step 6: Select Administrator
In the new window, click on the drop-down menu and select ‘Administrator’.
This will set the selected user account to have administrator privileges.
Step 7: Confirm changes
Click on ‘OK’ to confirm the changes.
Make sure you’re certain about giving the user administrator access before confirming.
After completing these steps, the selected user account will now have administrator privileges. They will be able to make changes to the computer that were previously restricted.
Tips for Changing Administrator on Windows 10
- Always back up important files before making significant changes to user accounts.
- If you’re transferring ownership of the computer, consider creating a new administrator account and deleting the old one.
- Make sure the new administrator remembers their password; it’s necessary for making changes to the system.
- Keep your computer secure by not sharing the administrator password with anyone you don’t trust.
- If you’re unsure about changing the administrator, seek help from a more experienced user or professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I can’t access the administrator account?
If you’re unable to access the administrator account, you may need to reset the password or use recovery tools to regain access.
Can I have more than one administrator on Windows 10?
Yes, you can have multiple administrator accounts on Windows 10.
Will changing the administrator affect my files?
No, changing the administrator should not affect personal files. However, it’s always good to back up important data regularly.
What happens if I remove the administrator account?
If you remove the administrator account, you will need to set another user as the administrator to manage the computer.
Can I change the administrator from a standard user account?
No, you need administrator privileges to change the administrator on Windows 10.
Summary
- Open Settings
- Click on Accounts
- Select Family & other users
- Choose the user
- Click on Change account type
- Select Administrator
- Confirm changes
Conclusion
Changing the administrator on Windows 10 is a simple process that can be completed in a few steps. It’s important to approach this task with caution, as the administrator has control over the entire system. Whether you’re doing this as part of setting up a new computer or transferring responsibilities to another user, always ensure the new administrator is trustworthy and understands the responsibility that comes with the role.
Remember to back up your files beforehand, just in case, and if you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to someone who can guide you through the process. Changing the administrator is just one of the many ways you can customize your Windows 10 experience to fit your needs. Happy computing!
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.