How to Change Standard Account to Admin Account on Windows 11

Giving a user admin rights in Windows 11 unlocks the ability to install apps, change system settings, and manage other accounts. Whether you’re setting up a new PC or adjusting permissions for an existing user, switching a standard account to an administrator is simple—if you know where to look.

Here’s how to do it.

Option 1: Use the Settings App

1. Open Settings
   Press Windows + I to open the Settings menu.
2. Go to Accounts > Other Users
   On the sidebar, click Accounts, then select Other users.
3. Select the User
   Find the account you want to change. Click the drop-down arrow next to the account name.
4. Change Account Type
   Click Change account type.
   In the pop-up, select Administrator from the drop-down menu.
   Click OK.

Done. That user now has full admin privileges.

Option 2: Use Control Panel (Classic Method)

1. Press Windows + R, type control, and press Enter.
2. Go to User Accounts > User Accounts again (yes, twice).
3. Click Manage another account.
4. Choose the account you want to change.
5. Click Change the account type.
6. Select Administrator, then click Change Account Type.

Option 3: Use Command Prompt (For Power Users)

1. Open Command Prompt as Admin
   Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
2. Run the Command
   Replace username with the actual account name: net localgroup administrators "username" /add

Hit Enter. If successful, you’ll see a confirmation message.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

• You must be signed in as an administrator to make this change.
• Giving someone admin access means they can make system-wide changes, including removing apps, disabling antivirus, and altering security settings.
• If you’re managing a family computer, think twice before giving admin rights to kids or casual users.

Wrap-Up

Whether you’re troubleshooting or just managing user roles, knowing how to switch account types in Windows 11 is essential. Stick with the method that works best for you—Settings is the easiest, Command Prompt is the fastest if you’re comfortable with it.

Got stuck? Drop a comment below and I’ll help you out.