6 Easy Ways to Change Administrator Account in Windows 11

Changing the administrator account in Windows 11 might sound like rocket science, but in reality it’s as simple as a few clicks—or a short command line entry. Whether you’re passing your computer on to a family member, reassigning control, or just tidying up account permissions, Windows 11 gives you multiple ways to adjust your account’s administrative status. In this article, we’re diving into six easy methods to change an administrator in Windows 11, complete with step-by-step instructions, practical tips, and a little background on why these changes matter. Let’s explore each method and understand the broader context behind administrative account management.

Why Change the Administrator Account?​

Before we get into the how-to’s, it’s worth asking: why would you want to change administrator rights? In Windows 11, administrative privileges determine who can safely install software, modify system settings, and manage user accounts. Changing these rights can be crucial when:

• Handing your PC over to someone else (think family, friends, or a new employee).
• Upgrading a standard user account to an administrator for extra control.
• Fine-tuning security policies, especially if your current account might be too powerful.
• Troubleshooting system modifications when multiple users are involved.

Knowing where and how these changes are made helps you maintain both security and flexibility on your Windows 11 system.
Quick Summary:

• Administrative rights control major system changes.
• Adjusting administrator status is essential for security and user management.
• Windows 11 offers several simple methods to manage these rights.

Method 1: Changing the Administrator for Family Accounts via Settings​

For users whose accounts are part of a Microsoft family group, Windows 11 provides an intuitive settings interface to adjust account types.

Step-by-Step Instructions:​

• Open Settings: Click on the Start menu and type “Settings” into the search bar. Select the Settings app from the search results.
• Navigate to Accounts: Once in Settings, click on the “Accounts” option on the left sidebar.
• Access Family Settings: Scroll down and click on “Family,” where you’ll see a list of family accounts linked to your Microsoft family group.
• Select the Desired Account: From the “Your family” section, choose the account you wish to grant administrative rights.
• Change Account Type: Click on “Change account type.” In the pop-up window, you’ll see an option that usually defaults to “Standard User.” Change this to “Administrator” and confirm the change.

Key Points:​

• This method is tailored for accounts under a Microsoft family group.
• It only takes a few minutes from start to finish.
• The process is entirely graphical, making it ideal for those who prefer not to use command-line tools.

Method 2: Changing the Administrator for Local User Accounts via Settings​

Not every Windows 11 user is part of a Microsoft family group. If you’re dealing with local user accounts, the process is nearly identical but uses a different sub-menu.

Step-by-Step Instructions:​

• Open Settings: Start by entering “Settings” into the Windows Search bar.
• Go to Accounts: In the Settings sidebar, click on “Accounts.”
• Select ‘Other Users’: Scroll down until you see the “Other devices” or “Other Users” option. This section lists local user accounts that aren’t part of your Microsoft family.
• Choose Your Local Account: Identify and select the local account you wish to modify.
• Modify Account Type: Click the “Change account type” button. In the ensuing dialogue box, switch the account type from “Standard User” to “Administrator” and save the changes.

Key Points:​

• Designed for local accounts that operate independently of Microsoft family groups.
• Very similar to Method 1, ensuring that Microsoft provides a unified experience in Settings.
• Suitable for laptop or desktop systems set up in environments where Microsoft accounts aren’t in use.

Method 3: Using the User Accounts Tool (netplwiz)​

For those who appreciate a more “classic” Windows approach, the User Accounts tool (netplwiz) is an excellent alternative. This method provides a deeper look into account properties.

Step-by-Step Instructions:​

• Launch netplwiz: Open the Start menu, type “netplwiz,” and hit Enter.
• Select the User Account: In the User Accounts window that opens, locate the account you wish to change.
• Access Properties: Highlight the account and click on “Properties.”
• Group Membership Tab: Navigate to the “Group Membership” tab within the properties dialog.
• Set the Account to Administrator: Change the setting to “Administrator” and then click “Apply,” followed by “OK.”

Pro Tip:​

• This method gives you a more detailed overview of user groups, which can be beneficial if you’re managing several accounts.
• Using netplwiz is reminiscent of older Windows versions with a modern twist, combining familiarity with functionality.

Method 4: Through the Command Prompt​

For power users who favor command line interfaces, the Command Prompt offers a quick method to change account permissions. This approach bypasses the graphical user interface entirely.

Step-by-Step Instructions:​

• Open Command Prompt as Administrator: Click on the Start menu, type “Command Prompt,” right-click the result, and select “Run as administrator.”
• Enter the Command: Type the following command (replace “UserName” with the actual username):
  net localgroup administrators “UserName” /add
• Press Enter: The command should execute, and you’ll see a message indicating that “The command completed successfully!”

Key Points:​

• This method is incredibly fast and ideal for system administrators or advanced users.
• It’s a reliable option if the graphical interfaces are not available or if you prefer command line operations.
• As always with command line tools, double-check the username to avoid errors.

Method 5: Through PowerShell​

If Command Prompt isn’t your cup of tea, Windows 11 also supports making changes via PowerShell, which provides a similar level of control but with more scripting capabilities for advanced users.

Step-by-Step Instructions:​

• Open PowerShell as Administrator: Type “PowerShell” in the Windows Search bar, right-click it, and choose “Run as administrator.”
• Input the Command: Use the same command as you would in Command Prompt:
  net localgroup administrators “UserName” /add
• Execute and Confirm: Press Enter, and if successful, you’ll receive a confirmation message stating, “The command completed successfully!”

Key Points:​

• PowerShell is particularly useful if you’re already automating system tasks with scripts.
• The syntax aligns perfectly with the Command Prompt method, reducing the learning curve.
• Utilizing PowerShell can integrate well with bulk actions in enterprise environments.

Method 6: Changing Administrator Rights via Control Panel​

When all else fails, or you simply prefer a more traditional approach, the Control Panel remains available in Windows 11. Despite Microsoft’s push towards the modern Settings app, Control Panel is still a powerful tool for system management.

Step-by-Step Instructions:​

• Access the Control Panel: Open the Start menu and type “Control Panel,” then press Enter.
• Navigate to User Accounts: In the Control Panel window, scroll down and click on “User Accounts.”
• Select the Account: Choose the account for which you wish to change the administrative status.
• Change the Account Type: Click on “Change account type.” In the next screen, select “Administrator” from the available options.
• Confirm the Change: Click on “Change Account Type” to save your selection.

Key Points:​

• The Control Panel method is perfect if you’re more comfortable with the tried-and-true interfaces of older Windows versions.
• It remains a versatile alternative, particularly in cases where the new Settings interface might not display all options.
• This option emphasizes that even in a modern OS like Windows 11, legacy tools still have their place.

Troubleshooting: Why Can’t I Change the Administrator?​

Sometimes, even when following these steps, you might encounter obstacles. Here are a few common reasons and suggested fixes:

• Not Logged in as an Administrator: You must have administrative rights to modify other accounts. If you’re logged in as a standard user, the option to change the administrator settings will be unavailable.
• Work or School Devices: If your Windows 11 device is managed by an organization (work or school), system settings may be locked down by group policies. In such cases, you’ll need to contact your IT administrator.
• Third-Party Management Software: Some antivirus or system management tools can restrict account changes. Temporarily disable these tools if you’re sure about your move.
• User Account Corruption: Rarely, issues with the user account database can cause this option to be missing. Running a system file check or creating a new user might resolve the issue.

Best Practices and Final Thoughts​

Changing the administrator in Windows 11 is more than just a procedural task—it’s an essential practice in managing system security and ensuring proper user privileges. Here are some best practices to consider after making your changes:

• Always Verify Account Changes: After altering account types, log in with the updated account to confirm that the permissions are correctly applied.
• Document Changes: Especially in multi-user or enterprise environments, keeping a log of account modifications can help troubleshoot future issues.
• Limit Administrative Rights: Only grant administrator rights to users who absolutely need them. Overuse of administrative privileges can expose your system to unnecessary security risks.
• Regularly Update Passwords: When an account’s privileges change, treat it as an opportunity to enforce stronger security practices, including complex password policies and multifactor authentication.
• Backup System Settings: Before making major changes, consider creating a restore point. This small step can save you a lot of hassle if anything goes wrong.

Real-World Applications​

These methods aren’t just academic—they play a critical role in everyday IT management. For instance, in a small business setting, it’s common to upgrade certain user accounts during system maintenance or after new hires. Similarly, tech-savvy home users might need to switch roles when a PC is repurposed or when troubleshooting a sluggish system due to misconfigured user accounts. Each method outlined here is designed with flexibility in mind, making these tasks straightforward regardless of your technical expertise.

A Balanced Perspective​

While graphical user interfaces in Settings and Control Panel offer simplicity, the command line methods (Command Prompt and PowerShell) present powerful options for automating tasks. Balancing ease of use and advanced functionality is the cornerstone of Windows 11’s approach to user management. Remember that each method serves different purposes depending on your environment—choose the one that best aligns with your comfort level and needs.

Summing Up​

Changing the administrator in Windows 11 doesn’t require jumping through hoops. Whether you prefer a modern touch through Settings, the legacy charm of netplwiz and Control Panel, or the raw power of command line tools, you’re in control. With these six methods, users of all skill levels can easily change account privileges to keep systems secure and running smoothly.

• For users in a Microsoft family group, use the Settings > Accounts > Family menu.
• Local user accounts can be managed similarly via Settings, using the “Other Users” section.
• The netplwiz utility offers a classic interface into user account details.
• The Command Prompt and PowerShell methods provide swift command line operations.
• Finally, legacy fans can always fall back on the trusty Control Panel.

Each method not only offers a solution but also provides insight into the broader flexibility and robustness of Windows 11’s user management ecosystem. Keeping these methods in your back pocket ensures you’re equipped to handle any administrative challenge that comes your way.
Changing administrator rights is a fundamental skill for managing a secure, well-organized computer system. Consider your environment, evaluate which method suits you best, and remember that with great power comes great responsibility—don’t hand out admin rights like candy! Happy computing, and may your Windows 11 experience be as smooth as it is secure.

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Source: PC Guide How to change the administrator in Windows 11 - 6 easy methods