Sometimes it’s kind of weird, but you don’t always need to get fancy to change your admin account in Windows 11. Usually, most personal PCs only have one or two accounts, and switching admin privileges isn’t a big deal. But if you’re dealing with a work machine, or just trying to set things up for someone else, knowing how to tweak those permissions can save a lot of headaches. The goal here? Make sure you have the right account with full control to install apps, change settings, or troubleshoot issues without hitting snags. Plus, it’s kind of useful to know how to create a new admin account without diving too deep into menus. Expect some straightforward options below, with the occasional command line trick thrown in — because of course, Windows has to make it a little harder than necessary.
Understanding User Account Types in Windows 11
Before jumping into the how-to, it’s good to get a grasp on what’s what. Windows 11 has three main account types:
- Administrator: Basically, the kingpin of your system. Full control, the power to install stuff, change settings, and pull the levers behind the scenes.
- Standard User: The regular folks. Limited permissions, can’t mess with system-wide settings or install most programs without an admin’s go-ahead.
- Guest: Super limited, intended for temporary visitors. Windows doesn’t usually enable these by default, and turning one on involves digging into settings. Not sure why it’s so hidden, but hey, that’s Windows.
For most setups, one account is the main admin while others are just standard users. Changing who’s the admin usually involves flipping a switch in Settings or running some commands. And yes, technically, only the current admin can promote or demote accounts, so if you can’t access an admin account, you’re stuck. Luckily, there are workarounds.
Method 1: How to Change Admin Account on Windows 11 Through Settings
This is the easiest way if you already have access to an admin account. It’s friendly, visual, and mostly trouble-free. Great for most users who don’t want to play with commands.
Why it helps
This method is perfect if your current account already has admin rights but you want to promote or demote someone else. It’s quick, GUI-based, and doesn’t require any command line magic. Works when you want to transfer admin privileges or tidy up user accounts so the right person has control.
When it applies
If you’re logged into an account that’s already an admin and just want to change permissions of other accounts, this is your go-to. Also handy if you added a new user and need to make them an admin.
What to expect
After following these steps, the selected account will have full admin rights. No more restrictions on software installs or system tweaks for that user. On some machines, this may not work flawlessly the first time, so a quick reboot might be needed.
Alright, here’s how to do it:
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Choose Accounts from the sidebar.
- Click on Other users. If you’re on Windows 11 Home, this might be labeled just “Family & other users.”
- Find the user account you want to upgrade. Click on it, then hit Change account type.
- In the dropdown, select Administrator. Then, click OK. Done.
Just keep in mind, after switching, you can also log into that account, go back, and turn it back into a standard user if needed (by choosing “Standard user” in Step 5).Basically, the admin switch is reversible and flexible.
Method 2: Create a New Administrator Account Through Settings
If you only have one account right now, and it’s not an admin, you’ll need to set up a new one with admin privileges. This is kinda annoying, but it’s doable, especially if you’re already logged in as a standard user on a machine that allows it.
Why it helps
This is handy if you want a fresh account with admin rights, or you’re prepping a machine for someone else and want full control from the start. It’s a little clunkier, but Windows makes it possible via Settings without digging into the command line.
When it applies
Use this when your current user doesn’t have admin permissions, and you can’t just change existing accounts easy. Also helpful if you want a clean slate and don’t want to mess with current users.
What to expect
A new admin account will be created and ready for use. After that, you can log into it and wipe or downgrade other accounts as needed. Just be aware that creating a new admin might require some initial password or login setup.
Here’s the quick rundown:
- Open Settings via Windows + I.
- Click on Accounts, then pick Other users.
- Click on Add account, then choose Microsoft account or Local account, depending on preferences.
- Follow prompts: if you don’t have a Microsoft account, pick “I don’t have this person’s sign-in info, ” then “Add a user without a Microsoft account.”
- Enter username and password, hit Next to create the user.
- Back in Other users, select the new account, then click Change account type.
- Choose Administrator from the dropdown, hit OK.
Method 3: Change Admin Account for Windows 11 via Command Prompt
If you’re comfortable with command lines and want more control, this one’s for you. It’s faster once you’ve done it the first time, but it’s a little intimidating if you’ve never used commands before. Still, it’s reliable and straight to the point.
Why it helps
This method is perfect if you want to quickly add or remove admin rights without navigating menus. Sometimes, the GUI just won’t cut it, especially if you’re scripting or automating tasks. Also useful if the GUI options are grayed out or unavailable.
When it applies
Use this if your account is already an admin but you want to promote someone new or set up accounts in bulk, or if the Settings app isn’t cooperating. Just remember, you need admin privileges to run these commands.
What to expect
You’ll chain together a couple of commands to add users or assign admin rights. It’s a little more technical, but it works every time if you get the syntax right. And no, Windows won’t yell at you for using Command Prompt — just be careful with your commands.
To add an existing user as an admin
- Press Windows + X and select Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
- Type in:
net localgroup administrators "username" /add, replacing “username” with the account’s name. - Press Enter. Voilá — that user is now an admin.
To remove a user from the admin group
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
- Type:
net localgroup administrators "username" /delete. - Hit Enter. That account loses admin privileges.
To create a new user and give them admin rights
- Open Command Prompt with admin privileges.
- Type:
net user "newusername" "password" /add. Replace “newusername” and “password” accordingly. - Then, promote that new account to admin:
net localgroup administrators "newusername" /add.
So, yeah, it’s kind of useful once you get used to the commands. Just make sure to run everything as administrator, because otherwise, it won’t work. Also, double-check the usernames — it’s easy to fat-finger and end up giving rights to the wrong account.
Wrap-up
Changing admin accounts on Windows 11 doesn’t have to be a headache if you know where to look. GUI options in Settings cover most cases, but commands give a backup plan if things get tricky. Just be cautious when messing with privileges — a slip-up can lock you out of admin controls or cause other weird issues. Use the method that’s easiest and safest for your situation, and you’ll be good to go.
Summary
- Use Settings to promote or demote users when possible.
- Create new admin accounts through Settings if needed.
- Command Prompt is a quick, powerful way to tweak user privileges if you’re comfortable with commands.
- Always double-check usernames and account types before applying changes.