Changing the administrator on Windows 11 isn’t just about clicking through menus — sometimes it feels like Windows throws a few curveballs, especially if your account doesn’t have enough permissions or if the UI changes after updates. But once you figure out where everything’s hidden, it’s pretty straightforward. This process is useful if you need to hand over control to someone else, or if you’re cleaning up old accounts that should no longer have admin rights. The key thing is making sure the new account actually has those rights — otherwise, you might end up locked out of critical settings. Expect to do a bit of clicking around in Settings, but also keep in mind that sometimes, toggling permissions might need a quick restart or logout for the changes to stick.
How to Change Administrator on Windows 11
Here’s how to actually do it — no fancy tech skills required, but you’ll want to follow each step carefully.
Access the Settings menu
Start by hitting the Start menu and clicking on Settings. If you’re feeling fancy, you can also press Windows key + I to open Settings instantly. Once it’s open, find the section called Accounts. This is where all user stuff lives — passwords, account types, family controls, you name it. Sometimes Windows updates shift things around, so if you don’t see it right away, look around or search for Accounts in the search bar.
Navigate to Family & other users
In the Accounts menu, look on the left for Family & other users. This is where Windows groups user management. Basically, it lets you see all accounts on the machine, whether they’re linked to a Microsoft login or just local users. If you’re sharing the PC with others or managing a bunch of accounts, this is the spot where things get set.
Pick the user to elevate
Under Other users, you’ll see all the accounts you can tweak. Find the user that needs to become an admin. Usually, you just click on their name or icon. Normally, if it’s your personal account, it’s already an administrator. But if it’s someone else’s account, you might need to promote it.
Change the account type to administrator
Click the Change account type button. A dropdown menu appears — pick Administrator from the options. Confirm with OK. On some setups, it’s a little buggy; it might look like nothing happens, but giving it a moment or logging out and back in usually refreshes things. Just keep in mind, you’ll need admin rights to perform this step, so if that’s an issue, you might need to do this from a built-in admin account or Safe Mode.
Once that’s done, the user will have full control over the system — can install software, tweak system settings, or do whatever an admin can. But watch out: on some machines, this change might not be instantaneous. Best to give it a quick restart or re-login. Windows sometimes defies logic and keeps temporary permissions active until it restarts.
Tips for Managing Admin Rights Properly
- Backup first: Before messing with user accounts, especially if you’re removing or promoting an existing admin, back up important data. Because of course, Windows has to make it harder than necessary.
- Use strong passwords: Always pick secure passwords for admin accounts. Might seem paranoid, but nothing sucks more than getting locked out after someone else’s weak password gets cracked.
- Be cautious with admin privileges: Don’t hand out admin rights like party favors. Limit it to people who really need it, keeps the system safer.
- Update regularly: Keep Windows 11 and your security software up to date. Outdated software is an open door.
- Review permissions: Every now and then, check who has admin rights. If someone no longer needs it, demote them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I assign multiple admins on Windows 11?
Yeah, you can. It’s like giving out keys to the car — just don’t make every single person an admin, or your system might end up a mess.
What if the account doesn’t show the option to change to admin?
That’s a pain. Usually, it means you’re logged into a non-admin account. You’ll need to access a built-in admin account or boot into Safe Mode with Networking to fix it. Sometimes, after Windows updates, the permissions get wonky — a reboot helps in that case.
Does changing the account type mess up installed software?
Not really. The software stays put and working. Changing user rights is more about who can access settings and install apps, not about removing existing apps.
Can I undo the change later if needed?
For sure. Just follow the same steps and switch them back to Standard User. Easy peasy.
Should I restart after changing the account to admin?
It’s not required every time, but a quick reboot helps Windows apply all the changes cleanly. Sometimes, without that, the privileges don’t register immediately.
Summary
- Open Settings via Start menu or Windows key + I
- Go to Accounts
- Click on Family & other users
- Pick the user you want to promote
- Change account type to Administrator
Wrap-up
Switching admin rights in Windows 11 isn’t the worst task once you figure out where everything’s hidden. Keep in mind, system permissions can be a bit fickle — sometimes a restart is all it takes to get things settled. Just remember to handle admin privileges responsibly; too many can be a security risk. On some machines, this process can behave a little oddly, but overall it’s not too bad. Fingers crossed this helps someone save a few headaches when managing user accounts in Windows 11.