If you’ve been using Windows 11 for a while, you’ve probably seen those little pop-up windows asking, “Do you want to allow this app to make changes to your device?” That’s User Account Control (UAC) in action. While it’s a handy security feature, it can sometimes feel a little annoying—especially if you’re a power user who installs and tweaks apps often.
So, if you’re wondering how to turn off UAC in Windows 11, you’re in the right place. In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about UAC—what it is, why people disable it, and the safest ways to do it.
What is UAC in Windows 11?
User Account Control (UAC) is a built-in security feature that helps prevent unauthorized changes to your computer.
Whenever an app tries to install software or make system-level changes, UAC steps in with a pop-up notification. This ensures that you, the user, are aware of what’s happening and can choose to allow or deny it.
Think of UAC like a bouncer at a nightclub—it checks IDs (permissions) before letting someone (an app) into the VIP area (your system settings).
Why Do People Turn Off UAC?
Even though UAC is helpful, not everyone loves it. Here are some common reasons people choose to disable it:
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Less interruption: Frequent prompts can be annoying.
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Advanced users: If you know what you’re doing, you may not need constant confirmation.
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Testing software: Developers often turn off UAC while testing applications.
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Streamlined workflow: Fewer pop-ups mean fewer distractions.
But keep in mind—disabling UAC lowers your system’s security. So, proceed carefully.
Ways to Turn Off UAC in Windows 11
There are multiple ways to disable UAC in Windows 11. Let’s go through them one by one.
Method 1 – Using Control Panel
This is the most straightforward method.
Step 1: Open Control Panel
Press Windows + S to open the search bar, type Control Panel, and hit Enter.
Step 2: Go to User Accounts
Click on User Accounts > User Accounts again.
Step 3: Change UAC Settings
Select Change User Account Control settings.
Step 4: Adjust the Slider
You’ll see a vertical slider with different notification levels. Drag it down to Never notify.
Step 5: Confirm Changes
Click OK and restart your computer. UAC is now turned off.
Method 2 – Using Windows Settings
If you prefer the modern Settings app, here’s how:
Step 1: Open Settings
Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
Step 2: Navigate to Accounts
Go to Accounts > Family & other users.
Step 3: Find UAC Settings
Type UAC into the Settings search bar and click Change User Account Control settings.
Step 4: Move the Slider
Drag the slider to Never notify, then hit OK.
Method 3 – Using Registry Editor
This method gives you full control, but it’s a bit advanced.
Step 1: Open Registry Editor
Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
Step 2: Navigate to UAC Settings
Go to:
Step 3: Modify EnableLUA
Find EnableLUA on the right panel. Double-click it and change its value to 0.
Step 4: Restart Your PC
Restart your computer for changes to take effect.
Method 4 – Using Local Security Policy
This method works only on Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise editions.
Step 1: Open Local Security Policy
Press Windows + R, type secpol.msc, and press Enter.
Step 2: Navigate to Security Options
Go to Local Policies > Security Options.
Step 3: Find UAC Policies
Scroll down to settings that start with User Account Control.
Step 4: Disable Policies
Modify the policies to disable UAC prompts, then restart your computer.
Method 5 – Using Command Prompt
For command-line lovers, here’s how:
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator
Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click it, and select Run as administrator.
Step 2: Enter Command
Type the following command and press Enter:
Step 3: Restart
Reboot your system to apply the changes.
Things to Consider Before Turning Off UAC
Before you disable UAC, there are some important things to think about.
Security Risks
Without UAC, malicious software could make changes to your system without asking for permission.
System Stability
Some apps may misbehave if UAC is completely disabled.
Compatibility Issues
Certain enterprise apps expect UAC to be enabled.
Alternative Option: Lower UAC Instead of Disabling
If you don’t want to completely turn it off, you can move the slider to a middle option. This reduces pop-ups but keeps some level of protection.
How to Re-Enable UAC in Windows 11
Changed your mind? No worries—re-enabling UAC is just as easy.
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Open Control Panel.
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Go to User Accounts > Change User Account Control settings.
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Move the slider back up to Always notify or your preferred level.
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Click OK and restart.
Tips for Safely Managing UAC
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Keep antivirus enabled if you disable UAC.
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Only install trusted apps from reliable sources.
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Consider off-peak disabling (like during software testing) and re-enable UAC later.
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Update Windows regularly to patch vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
Turning off UAC in Windows 11 can give you more control and fewer interruptions, but it does come with some risks. If you’re a casual user, I’d recommend lowering UAC settings instead of fully disabling them. But if you’re an advanced user, developer, or IT pro, turning off UAC may make sense for your workflow.
Whatever method you choose—Control Panel, Registry Editor, or Command Prompt—just be mindful of security and always keep backups of your important files.
FAQs
Q1: Is it safe to turn off UAC in Windows 11?
Not really. While it reduces interruptions, it also lowers your system’s security.
Q2: Does disabling UAC improve performance?
Not significantly. It mostly just removes pop-up prompts.
Q3: Can I disable UAC for specific apps only?
No, UAC works system-wide. You can’t whitelist individual apps.
Q4: What happens if I set UAC to “Never Notify”?
Your system won’t ask for permission before apps make changes—leaving you more vulnerable to malware.
Q5: How do I check if UAC is currently disabled?
Go to Control Panel > User Accounts > Change User Account Control settings. If the slider is at “Never notify,” UAC is off.