Ever tried installing software or changing system settings only to get a “You need administrator privileges” message? That’s because your account doesn’t have admin rights. If you want full control over your PC, or if you need to grant admin rights to another user, Windows 11 makes it simple—but you need to know the correct steps.
In this guide, I’ll show you multiple ways to give admin rights to a user in Windows 11, including using Settings, Control Panel, Command Prompt, and PowerShell.
What Are Admin Rights in Windows 11?
Admin rights (or administrator privileges) allow a user to make system-wide changes. These include:
- Installing or uninstalling software
- Changing system settings
- Managing user accounts
- Accessing restricted files and folders
Without admin rights, you’re limited to basic tasks, like browsing and editing personal files.
Why Give a User Admin Rights?
You might need to grant admin rights for:
- Installing programs for work or gaming
- Changing security settings
- Managing multiple accounts on a shared computer
But keep in mind: giving admin rights means full control, so only grant it to trusted users.
Different Ways to Give Admin Rights in Windows 11
There are several methods—some are beginner-friendly, others require command-line skills. Let’s cover them all.
Method 1: Use Windows Settings (Easiest Way)
This is the simplest method and works for most users.
Steps:
- Press Win + I to open Settings.
- Go to Accounts > Family & other users.
- Under Other users, select the account you want to modify.
- Click Change account type.
- In the pop-up, change Standard User to Administrator.
- Click OK to save changes.
That’s it! The user now has full admin privileges.
Method 2: Use Control Panel
If you prefer the old-school way, Control Panel is still available.
Steps:
- Press Win + R, type
control, and press Enter. - Go to User Accounts > Change account type.
- Select the user account you want to upgrade.
- Click Change the account type.
- Select Administrator and click Change Account Type.
Done! The account now has admin rights.
Method 3: Use Command Prompt (CMD)
If you like using commands, this method is quick.
Steps:
- Search for Command Prompt in the Start menu.
- Right-click and choose Run as administrator.
- Type the following command and press Enter:
net localgroup administrators "username" /add
(Replace username with the actual account name.)
- Close CMD.
Now the user is part of the Administrators group.
Method 4: Use PowerShell
PowerShell works similarly to CMD but is more powerful.
Steps:
- Search for PowerShell, right-click, and select Run as administrator.
- Type this command and press Enter:
Add-LocalGroupMember -Group "Administrators" -Member "username"
(Replace username with the actual account name.)
- Press Enter and close PowerShell.
Done! The user now has administrator privileges.
Method 5: Use Local Users and Groups (Pro Versions Only)
This option is available in Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions.
Steps:
- Press Win + R, type
lusrmgr.msc, and hit Enter. - Go to Users.
- Right-click the user account and select Properties.
- Click the Member Of tab.
- Click Add, type
Administrators, and click OK. - Apply changes and restart.
How to Check If a User Has Admin Rights
To confirm:
- Press Win + I → Accounts → Your info.
- Under your name, it will show Administrator or Standard user.
Important Tips Before Granting Admin Rights
- Do not give admin access to unknown users (security risk).
- Create a backup before making changes to system accounts.
- Set a strong password for admin accounts.
How to Remove Admin Rights Later
If you want to revert the changes:
- Go back to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.
- Select the user → Change account type → switch back to Standard User.
Pros and Cons of Giving Admin Rights
Pros
- Full control over system settings
- Ability to install software freely
- Manage all user accounts
Cons
- Higher security risks if misused
- Possible accidental system changes
Final Thoughts
Giving admin rights in Windows 11 is easy, whether you use Settings, Control Panel, CMD, or PowerShell. Just remember: with great power comes great responsibility. Always grant admin rights only to trusted users and keep your system secure.
Conclusion
Now you know how to give admin rights to a user in Windows 11—step by step, using multiple methods. Whether you prefer a graphical interface or command-line tools, the choice is yours. Just make sure to use it wisely!
FAQs
1. Can I give admin rights without logging into an admin account?
No, you need an existing admin account to grant admin privileges to another user.
2. Will giving admin rights require a restart?
Usually no, but in some cases, you may need to sign out and back in.
3. Can a Standard User remove an Admin account?
No, only an Admin can manage other accounts.
4. Is it safe to make everyone an Administrator?
No, it increases security risks. Limit admin rights to necessary accounts only.
5. Can I do this in Windows 10 as well?
Yes, the steps are almost identical.