Running a game as an admin on Windows 11 isn’t just ticking a box — it can actually sort out some weird permission issues that cause games to crash or run like a slug. Honestly, Windows can be a bit over the top sometimes, especially with the latest updates. Giving the game admin rights is often a quick fix for those dramas.
How to Run a Game as Administrator on Windows 11
Here’s the lowdown: if your game keeps crashing, stuttering, or just won’t start, running it as an admin might do the trick. It grants the game higher-level permissions so it can access the files or system stuff it might be blocked from otherwise. And for old games or ones with anti-cheat systems, admin rights are sometimes a must-do.
Step 1: Find the game folder or shortcut
Usually, it’s on your desktop or listed in the Start menu. Sometimes, games live in File Explorer > Program Files (x86) or wherever you installed them. I’ve had moments where right-clicking the desktop shortcut worked, and others where I had to track down the actual game.exe in the install folder.
Step 2: Right-click the icon or game file
This is your best mate now. Right-click the shortcut or the main .exe file of the game. If you’re launching through a launcher like Steam or Epic, you might need to find the real game executable itself, not just the launcher.
Step 3: Choose ‘Run as administrator’
This one’s a no-brainer, but don’t skip it. Selecting ‘Run as administrator’ lifts the game’s permissions for this session. Sometimes, that’s enough to get it working right away, but if you want it to always run like that, check out the tips below.
Step 4: Confirm the UAC prompt
Windows will ask if you’re happy with that. Click ‘Yes’. It might look a bit different depending on your User Account Control settings, but it’s the same deal. No worries.
Step 5: Crack open a cold one and enjoy
The game should now tart up with admin rights. That usually means fewer permission hiccups, better stability, and maybe a bit of extra performance. Not sure why, but it’s a simple fix that works a treat for heaps of games.
Once it’s running with elevated rights, it helps dodge those permission blockades that can cause crashes or lag. Just a heads-up: doing this every time can get a bit tedious, so if you’re keen, set it to always run as admin in the properties.
Tips for Running a Game as Admin on Windows 11
- Check Compatibility Mode: If it’s an older game, try running it in compatibility mode, like Windows 7 or XP. Right-click the game, select ‘Properties’, jump to the ‘Compatibility’ tab, and tick ‘Run this program in compatibility mode for’.
- Create a Shortcut with Admin Rights: Sick of right-clicking? Right-click the shortcut, go to ‘Properties’, then ‘Advanced’, and check ‘Run as administrator’. Next time, just launch from that shortcut and you’re laughing.
- Update Your Drivers: Especially your graphics card drivers. Outdated GPU drivers can cause all sorts of lag or crashes. Check Windows Update or the manufacturer’s website for the latest and greatest.
- Close Background Apps: Shut down heavy apps in the background — like Chrome, Discord, or other programs — to free up resources and help the game run smoother.
- Get the Latest Windows Updates: Sometimes, Windows itself needs an update to fix bugs or compatibility issues. Head to Settings > Windows Update and give it a whirl.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I run a game as an admin?
Some games, especially those with anti-cheat systems, mods, or overlays, can’t access certain system files or hardware without admin rights. Giving it those permissions can fix crashes, startup problems, or odd bugs.
Will running as admin harm my computer?
Not if the game’s from a trusted source. It just gives the game more access than usual. But avoid running dodgy or unknown software as admin — Windows likes to keep things secure, after all.
How do I make a game run as admin every time?
Right-click the game shortcut, go to ‘Properties’, then ‘Advanced’. Check ‘Run as administrator’. Done — it’ll always launch with those rights from then on.
Can running as admin fix crashes?
It can help with certain permission-related crashes, but it’s not a cure-all. If the game’s got bugs or your system is dodgy, you might need a bit more than that.
Does admin mode boost game performance?
Sometimes it does, especially if Windows was blocking some files or throttle settings. But it’s not a graphics boost — more about smoothing out permission roadblocks.
Summary
- Find the game or its shortcut
- Right-click and select ‘Run as administrator’
- Confirm the UAC prompt
- Optional: set it to always run as admin in properties
- Enjoy smoother gaming with fewer permission dramas
Hope this helps someone save a bit of faffing around. Permissions can be a pain in the backside, but it’s worth the hassle if it stops your game from crashing just when you’re about to win.