How to Fix Missing 'Run as Different User' Option in Windows 11

In recent discussions within the Windows community, a common frustration has surfaced regarding the Run as different user option not appearing in Windows 11 context menus. This essential feature allows users to launch applications with alternate user credentials without needing to log in and out of different user accounts. As Windows Forum enthusiasts strive for efficiency and flexibility in multitasking, issues like these disrupt workflows and raise questions about troubleshooting in Windows operating systems.

Understanding the Importance of "Run as Different User"​

The Run as different user functionality is a tool that allows users to execute applications while using alternate login credentials. This is particularly useful in various scenarios, such as:

• Testing: Software developers may need to test applications under different user permissions.
• Administration: IT personnel often need administrative access to troubleshoot issues without being logged in as an administrator continuously.
• Enhanced Security: Running tasks with limited permissions minimizes risks associated with potential vulnerabilities in software by ensuring users don't run with higher permissions than necessary. However, recent updates to Windows 11 have seen some users reporting that this feature has stopped appearing in the context menu, which can cause confusion and inefficiency in various tasks.

  Why is "Run as Different User" Missing?​

  There are several potential causes for this feature disappearing:
• Windows Updates: As with many features in Windows, changes and bugs introduced with updates could inadvertently alter the settings for the context menu.
• Service Issues: Components like the Secondary Logon service may become disabled or malfunction, causing the option not to be displayed.
• User Account Control (UAC) Configurations: Security settings can prevent certain options from appearing as intended.
• Registry or Group Policy Configurations: Modifications or corruption in the registry or group policy settings can impact the visibility and functionality of this feature.

  Solutions to Restore "Run as Different User"​

  If you find that the Run as different user option is missing from your system, several methods are available to remedy this situation:

  1. Restart the Secondary Logon Service​

  The Secondary Logon service allows users to run processes with different credentials. If this service is not active, the Run as different user option will not appear.
• Opens the Run dialog with Win + R.
• Type services.msc and hit OK.
• Find Secondary Logon in the list, double-click it to open properties.
• Set Startup Type to Automatic. Click Apply, then OK.
• Restart your system and check if the option is visible.

  2. Use the Local Group Policy Editor​

  If you are using Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise versions, you can also manage group policy settings:
• Press Win + R to open the Run dialog, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
• Navigate to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > Start Menu and Taskbar.
• Double-click on Show “Run as different user” command on Start and set it to Enabled.
• After saving your changes, restart the computer and see if the option appears.

  3. Uninstall Recent Windows Updates​

  If your issue coincided with a Windows update, reverting back may resolve it:
• Open Settings with Win + I.
• Click on Windows Update, then Update history.
• From there, choose Uninstall updates and select the most recent update to uninstall.
• Restart your system to check for changes.

  4. Adjust User Account Control (UAC)​

  High UAC settings can sometimes restrict access to certain features:
• Open the Run dialog with Win + R and input msconfig.
• Navigate to the Tools tab, click on Change UAC Settings, and launch it.
• Adjust the slider to Never notify and then click OK.
• Reboot your computer and check the menus again.

  5. Modify the Registry​

  If the above methods do not work, altering the registry settings may help—though caution is advised as incorrect changes can lead to system instability:
• Open Notepad and copy/paste the following script for enabling Run as different user for all users:
  Code:

   Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00 [HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Explorer] "ShowRunAsDifferentUserInStart"=dword:00000001 [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Explorer] "ShowRunasDifferentuserinStart"=dword:00000001

• For a single user, use this version:
  Code:

   Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00 [HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Explorer] "ShowRunAsDifferentUserInStart"=- [HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Explorer] "ShowRunasDifferentuserinStart"=-

• Save the file with a .reg extension. Run the file as Administrator.
• Restart your computer afterward.

  6. Perform a System Restore​

  If all else fails, using System Restore to revert your system to a previous state may be necessary:
• Search for Create a restore point in the Start menu.
• Select System Restore and follow the prompts to choose a restore point predating the issues.
• Complete the process, allowing the system to return to a prior state.

  Conclusion​

  The disappearance of the Run as different user option in Windows 11 is a perplexing issue but can often be remedied by the solutions provided above. As our digital ecosystems continue to evolve, staying informed on troubleshooting methods can enhance both productivity and user experience. For further queries or assistance regarding Windows features, the Windows Forum community remains an invaluable resource. Please ensure you create backups and possibly a System Restore Point before making system changes to avoid any unfortunate data loss. Source: The Windows Club .