How to run a batch file always as admin on Windows 11

Running batch files with administrator rights on Windows 11 is a common need—especially when your scripts modify system files, install software, or need access beyond a standard user. Here’s how to set it up, permanently.

Why You Need Admin Rights

Some commands in your batch files require elevated permissions. Without running them as admin, your scripts might fail, or worse—do nothing at all.

The Problem

Double-clicking a batch file launches it with normal permissions. Sure, you can right-click and select Run as administrator, but that’s easy to forget. If you want to automate or schedule that script, you need it to run as admin every single time.

The Solution: Three Reliable Methods

1. Create a Shortcut That Always Runs as Admin

1. Right-click your batch file and select Create shortcut.
2. Right-click the shortcut and go to Properties.
3. Click the Shortcut tab, then click Advanced…
4. Check the box for Run as administrator.
5. Click OK, then Apply.

Tip: Run your batch file from this shortcut. It’ll always ask for permission and run as admin.

2. Use Task Scheduler (No UAC Prompt!)

If you want your batch file to run as admin automatically and skip the annoying UAC pop-up, Task Scheduler is your friend.

1. Open Task Scheduler:
   Hit Start, search for Task Scheduler, and open it.
2. Create a New Task:
   Click Create Task (not “Create Basic Task”).
3. General Tab:
   • Name your task.
   • Check Run with highest privileges.
4. Actions Tab:
   • Click New…
   • Set Action to Start a program.
   • Program/script: Enter the path to your batch file.
5. (Optional) Triggers Tab:
   Set how you want your batch file to run (on startup, schedule, etc.).
6. Click OK to save.

Now, either let Task Scheduler run it based on your trigger, or create a shortcut with this as the target:

schtasks /run /tn "Your Task Name"

Replace "Your Task Name" with what you named your task. This shortcut launches your batch file as admin without any prompts.

3. Embed an Auto-Elevate Script

If you want the batch file to request admin rights every time—even if someone forgets—add this code to the top of your batch file:

:: BatchGotAdmin
:-------------------------------------
REM --> Check for permissions
>nul 2>&1 "%SYSTEMROOT%\system32\cacls.exe" "%SYSTEMROOT%\system32\config\system"
if '%errorlevel%' NEQ '0' (
    echo Requesting administrative privileges...
    powershell -Command "Start-Process '%~0' -Verb runAs"
    exit /b
)
:--------------------------------------

This checks if the script is running as admin. If not, it automatically re-launches itself with admin rights.

Bottom Line

Running your batch file as administrator is just a matter of setting it up once the right way. Use a shortcut for quick fixes, Task Scheduler for silent background runs, or embed the auto-elevate script for foolproof elevation. No more failed scripts. No more headaches.

Questions? Drop them in the comments below!

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!