Introducing Sudo in Windows 11: Elevate Commands with Ease

Microsoft is borrowing a page from the Linux playbook—introducing a sudo-style command in Windows. This new feature, now available in Windows 11 version 24H2, gives users a quicker, more elegant method to run individual commands with administrative privileges, eliminating the need to launch an always-elevated PowerShell session.

A Quick Look at the New Sudo Feature​

Traditionally, Windows users had to right-click on PowerShell or Command Prompt and select “Run as administrator” just to perform a single task that required elevated privileges. Linux users, on the other hand, have long enjoyed the convenience of prefixing commands with sudo to temporarily gain higher privileges. Now, Microsoft is taking notes from that model. Here's what you need to know:

• Availability: The sudo-like feature is bundled with Windows 11 version 24H2, initially released in October 2024 and still rolling out to users as of early 2025.
• Activation: To check if your system supports this feature, open System Settings → System → For developers. If you’re running 24H2, you should see an option to enable “sudo.”
• Modes of Operation:
• Default Mode: This is the recommended option from Microsoft. In this mode, a new window opens to run the command with administrator privileges, ensuring that security prompts and isolation remain intact.
• Inline Mode: Closer to the classic Linux experience, this mode allows the command to execute in the same console window.
• Input Closed Mode: Functions similarly to inline mode but prevents commands from receiving additional input during its execution.

Once enabled, simply prefix any command with sudo to request administrator privileges. A pop-up confirmation will appear, and after you click “Yes,” the command will execute with elevated rights.

Why This Matters for Windows Users​

Bridging the OS Gap​

This change is more than cosmetic—it’s part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to make Windows more developer-friendly and align its behavior with the tools many Linux users have long taken for granted. If you’ve ever been frustrated with the extra steps required to run a command as administrator, you now have a faster alternative.

• Efficiency for Developers: Many developers appreciate the minimal disruption caused by prompting for elevation just once per command rather than switching contexts entirely.
• Enhanced User Experience: By offering this feature, Windows further narrows the gap between Windows and Linux environments, particularly beneficial for users who work in cross-platform development or who have recently migrated from Linux.

Balancing Convenience and Security​

While the inline mode mimics the Linux style, Microsoft’s default mode—the start of a new elevated window—remains the safest. This approach minimizes risks by ensuring that elevated processes run in a controlled environment. For those who desire a more immediate elevation experience, however, third-party tools like gsudo are recommended. Not only does gsudo offer a closer replica of Linux’s sudo, but it can also be quickly installed via the winget package manager.

Tip: If you find that the built-in sudo feature isn’t cooperating with certain applications or doesn’t quite meet your needs, consider trying gsudo as an alternative.

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Step-by-Step: How to Use the New Sudo Command​

If you’re ready to experiment with this new functionality, here’s a simple guide to get you started:

• Verify Your Windows Version:
  Ensure your machine is running Windows 11 version 24H2. You can check this in the System settings under About.
• Access Developer Settings:
• Open Settings.
• Navigate to System → For developers.
• Look for the option labeled “sudo” and enable it if available.
• Choose Your Mode:
  Select one of the three operating modes (Default is highly recommended for security).
• Run Commands with Sudo:
  Open your Command Prompt or PowerShell. For any command that requires administrative rights, simply prefix it with sudo. For example:
  
  Code:

  sudo ipconfig /flushdns

  A pop-up will ask for confirmation—click “Yes” to proceed.
• Alternatives:
  If you prefer not to use this built-in tool or encounter issues, consider installing gsudo via winget for a more familiar Linux-style experience.

Industry Impact and Broader Implications​

A Sign of the Times​

Microsoft’s decision to incorporate a sudo-style command in Windows reflects an industry-wide trend: the blending of traditionally separate operating system philosophies. Over the years, Microsoft has steadily increased its support for Linux-inspired features—from the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) to enhanced command-line utilities. This new addition is yet another example of how Microsoft is evolving its ecosystem to satisfy both casual users and seasoned developers.

Enhancing the Developer Ecosystem​

• Streamlined Workflows: Developers can now integrate administrative commands into scripts more seamlessly, reducing the friction between testing, deployment, and debugging processes.
• Cross-Platform Familiarity: For those fluent in Linux, this feature decreases the learning curve when transitioning to or working on Windows, which is particularly beneficial in multi-platform development environments.
• Security Considerations: While the inline mode may feel natural to Linux users, sticking with the default mode is a small but significant reminder of the need for careful elevation practices in a security-conscious world.

A Note from Previous Discussions​

In our ongoing series on Windows updates and improvements, we’ve seen similar efforts to refine and modernize the operating system. For example, our earlier coverage on the Microsoft KB5053387 update—detailing enhancements to the Windows installation process—highlighted Microsoft’s commitment to smoother and more secure system experiences. Read more details https://windowsforum.com/threads/353774.

Balancing Developer Convenience with Security​

The introduction of the sudo-style command on Windows isn’t just a nod to command-line aficionados—it’s a thoughtful balance between empowering users and maintaining robust security protocols. When you run a command with sudo, the system ensures that:

• User Intent Is Verified: The pop-up confirmation acts as a safeguard against inadvertent administrative actions.
• Process Isolation Is Maintained: The default new-window approach effectively quarantines elevated processes, reducing cross-command interference.

This multi-tiered approach illustrates how Microsoft continues to adapt security best practices while integrating user-friendly features.

Final Thoughts​

Microsoft’s new sudo-style command in Windows 11 version 24H2 combines convenience with the security standards that Windows users expect. Whether you’re a developer tired of cumbersome elevation processes or a long-time user interested in a more streamlined command-line experience, this feature is worth exploring.
Key Takeaways:

• New Feature: Windows 11 now includes a pseudo-sudo command for single-command elevation.
• User Flexibility: Choose from multiple modes—default (new window), inline, and input closed.
• Security First: Microsoft recommends the default mode to maintain a secure execution environment.
• Alternatives Available: If you need more Linux-like behavior, try gsudo via winget.
• Industry Trend: Reflects Microsoft’s broader shift towards integrating developer-friendly Linux features.

With continuous improvements and a nod to its roots, Windows is proving that sometimes, adopting a little cross-platform wisdom can go a long way. Give it a try, and see how it reshapes your workflow—one command at a time.

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Stay tuned for more insightful updates on Windows 11 features and system enhancements on WindowsForum.com!

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Source: Lifehacker https://lifehacker.com/tech/how-to-use-sudo-on-windows/