How to Run Programs as Administrator in Windows: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Some applications in Windows do not work properly unless they are run with elevated privileges. This happens because certain programs require access to sensitive areas of the system, modify settings at the system level, hardware or install/control background services. In these cases, running them as an administrator is essential. For example, some options on administrator permissions in Windows 11 are necessary to manage these situations.

Run as administrator It means granting special permissions to a file or program so it can perform tasks that a standard user cannot, such as modifying system files or installing drivers. While this is useful, it also poses a risk if granted to software of dubious origin.

What does it mean to run as administrator in Windows?

Windows has a security system based on user privileges. By default, standard accounts cannot make major changes to the system. When a program requires elevated permissions, it must run with administrator privileges, giving it control over the usual restrictions. This is especially relevant when using certain tools that require running as an administrator.

When running as administrator, The application can access protected files, modify system settings, access the registry, and more. This is a prerequisite for tools such as antivirus software, installers, or software that interacts with hardware. For more information on how to enable specific settings, see how to start windows 11 in safe mode.

Important: These permissions should only be granted to trusted programs. If you run malware as an administrator, it will have the power to completely compromise your computer.

Methods to run a program as administrator in Windows

There are different ways to run a program as administrator in Windows 10 and Windows 11. Below, we detail all of them:

1. Right-click on the shortcut or executable file

This is the most direct and well-known way. You just have to locate the program you want to start with elevated privileges, right-click on its icon - either on the desktop, file explorer or start menu - and select "Execute as an administrator". This is similar to how you can run specific configurations in Device Manager in Windows 11.

If your account already has administrator permissions, the program will open with those rights. Otherwise, Windows will ask you for the password for an account with privileges.

2. From Windows Search or Start Menu

Another quick option is to use the built-in search bar. Type the name of the application, right-click on the result and select "Execute as an administrator".

You can also do the same from the Start menu if you have pinned the app: right-clicking it will give you the option to run it with elevated permissions.

3. Using a key combination in the Run dialog box

This method combines speed and keyboard shortcuts:

• Balance Windows + R to open the "Run" box
• Enter the name of the executable (such as cmd, notepad, WinWord)
• Balance Ctrl + Shift + Enter instead of just Enter

The program will automatically open with administrator privileges.

4. From the Task Manager

Windows allows you to start programs with elevated permissions directly from the Task Manager:

• Balance Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open it
• Click on File > Run New Task
• Enter the name of the program and select the option "Create this task with administrative privileges"
• Balance Accept

This method is especially useful if you need to perform administrative tasks when the system is already in use or if other methods are blocked. Make sure you know the appropriate permissions when performing this action.

5. From the file explorer

You can also run as administrator from Windows Explorer:

• Navigate to the file or shortcut
• Right click
• Select the “Manage” tab at the top
• Click on "Execute as an administrator"

6. Run as another user with administrator permissions

If your account doesn't have privileges but you know another one that does, you can run the program as another user:

• Take the Shift + right click about the executable
• Choose "Run as another user"
• Enter the username and password of the privileged account

This only works if the other account is registered in the system.

7. Configure to always run as administrator

If you frequently use a program that requires privileges, you can set it to always open as an administrator automatically:

• Right-click on the program shortcut
• Choose Properties
• In the Direct access, click on Advanced
• Check the box "Execute as an administrator" and save the changes

Another alternative is to go to the tab Compatibility within Properties, and there you can also check that option.

Enable the hidden administrator account in Windows 10

Windows 10 and earlier versions include a disabled administrator account by default. If you need to, you can enable it by following these steps:

• Open the symbol of the system Windows + R
• Write cmd and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter
• Write the command: "lusrmgr.msc" and press enter
• In the Local Users and Groups panel, select Users.
• Double-click the "Administrator" account
• Remove the mark from "The account is deactivated" and save

From there you can enable or disable it as needed. If you want more information about the safe mode, query how to get out of safe mode.

Check if a program runs as administrator

Sometimes it's not clear whether an app has been launched with privileges. You can check with Task Manager:

• Open it with Ctrl + Shift + Esc
• Go to the tab Details
• Right click on the columns and select “Select columns”
• Activate the column "High"

This column will indicate with “Yes” the apps that are running as administrator.

How to run as administrator from standard accounts

Standard accounts cannot grant administrator permissions on their own. When attempting a task that requires them, Windows will prompt you for the credentials of a privileged account. This is useful for keeping your system secure in school, home, or business environments. If you want to change the permissions of a standard account:

• Go to Settings > Accounts > Family and other users
• From there you can change the account type (if you have permissions)

Optional: Use SUDO on Windows as well as on Linux

If you come from the world Linux, you might miss the sudo command. You can replicate it on Windows by downloading a tool called sudo.exe (open source). To use it:

• Copy it in C: / Windows
• Open the console and type sudo cmd
• you can also write sudo notepad or any executable

This command will force the console or application to open with elevated privileges. Additionally, if you want to dig deeper, you can read about How to fix the administrator access denied error.

Now you know every option available to run programs as an administrator in Windows. This feature is key for system control and maintenance, but it should always be used with caution. Applications from unknown or suspicious sources should never run with elevated permissions. By knowing these techniques, you'll be able to offer support, troubleshoot common errors, or improve performance of your tools efficiently and safely.

Related article:

Windows 10 Safe Mode: How do I exit it without entering the password?

Isaac

Passionate writer about the world of bytes and technology in general. I love sharing my knowledge through writing, and that's what I'll do on this blog, show you all the most interesting things about gadgets, software, hardware, tech trends, and more. My goal is to help you navigate the digital world in a simple and entertaining way.