Changing the admin account in Windows 11 isn’t as tricky as it might first seem — but it’s not always obvious either. Sometimes, you just need to switch which user has the high-level rights, maybe because someone else is taking over or a new mate needs access. Other times, the account you want to promote isn’t flagged as an admin, and it can be a bit frustrating trying to sort it out without mucking things up.
This guide is here to lend a hand, even if you’re not super techy. It’s a pretty straightforward process, but Windows can be a bit picky about permissions and settings. When you get it right, your chosen user will be able to tweak settings, install software, and run the system like a proper admin — no worries. Just remember, giving someone admin powers means more control, so make sure it’s someone you trust.
How to Change the Admin Account in Windows 11
Method 1: Using Settings
This is the easiest way — if you prefer clicking through menus, it’s dead simple. It’s handy when the account you want to upgrade is already listed but just needs a boost in rights. Usually, changing user roles here does the trick.
First off, open Settings
- Press the Windows key and click the gear icon or hit Settings directly from the Start menu.
- The Settings window opens up. This is your main spot for user accounts, display options, and more. Fair warning — sometimes Windows makes you click around a bit to get to user settings, especially if it’s been a while since you looked there.
On some setups, the Settings app can be a bit clunky or slow, but don’t stress — it’s worth it.
Navigate to Accounts
- Inside Settings, click on Accounts.
- This is where Windows keeps your profile info, login options, and account types. Look for Family & other users, usually under the “Accounts” menu.
Find and select the account to upgrade
- Scroll through the list and click on the user you want to make an admin.
- If that account isn’t already listed as a “Standard user,” you’ll want to change that now.
Change account type to Admin
- Click on Change account type.
- A new menu pops up. Under Account type, pick Administrator from the dropdown.
- Hit OK or Apply, and you’re done — the user now has admin rights.
Heads up: On some setups, you might need to log out and back in for the change to take effect. Also, because Windows can be a bit confusing with admin toggles, double-check you’re giving this role to the right person.
Method 2: Using Local Users & Groups (only on Pro or Higher)
If you’re running Windows 11 Pro or higher, there’s a quicker way via “Local Users & Groups” — not available on the Home version without some tricks. This method is handy if the Settings app throws you a wobbly.
Open Local Users and Groups
- Press Win + R, type
lusrmgr.msc, and hit Enter. - This opens the local user management console, where you can see all user accounts and their roles straight up.
Find the user and bump their rights
- In the left-hand pane, click on Users.
- Double-click the account you want to give admin rights.
- Check the box next to Member Of, then click Add.
- Type in Administrators and hit Check Names so it resolves, then OK.
This adds the user to the Administrators group, giving them full admin privileges. It’s usually more direct if you’re comfortable with these tools, but be careful — don’t hand out admin rights to someone who might cause a mess.
Tips for Changing the Admin Account in Windows 11
- Make sure the person getting admin access knows it’s a big deal — they can muck things up if they’re careless.
- Back up important stuff before making big changes, just in case.
- Use a strong, unique password on the admin account — Windows can be a bit annoying about security.
- If things go wonky, logging out and back in or restarting the PC often sorts it out.
- Remember, you can always switch things back if need be. That’s the beauty of it.
FAQs
Can I have multiple admin accounts?
Yeah, Windows 11 supports a few admin accounts if you want trusted mates to have high-level access without sharing one login.
What if I lose access to the admin account?
This can be a real headache — sometimes you’ll need to boot into recovery mode or use another admin account to fix it. Always keep at least one admin account handy.
Is it risky giving someone admin rights?
Depends. They can change system settings, install things, or cause a bit of chaos. Only hand over admin powers to someone you trust or who genuinely needs it.
Can I turn it back later?
Absolutely. Just follow the same steps and switch the user back to a standard account if you need to.
Do I need Wi-Fi or internet to do this?
Nope, most of this is local. You can do it offline — Windows doesn’t need to be online to change user roles.
Quick Summary
- Open Settings
- Go to Accounts
- Select Family & other users
- Choose the account you want to promote
- Switch it to Administrator
Wrap-up
Getting the right bloke or sheila with admin access on Windows 11 is pretty important if you want control of your system. Whether you do it via Settings or the advanced tools like lusrmgr, just make sure you know what you’re up to — it’s easy to make a mistake or give access to the wrong person. Keep your admin accounts locked up with solid passwords, and hopefully, this makes managing users a breeze and keeps your system safe as houses.