Giving Admin Rights to a User in Windows 10
Sometimes you need to grant a user admin rights to perform certain tasks on a Windows 10 computer. This quick guide will show you how to do it in a few simple steps. By the end of this, you’ll know exactly how to assign admin privileges to any user account.
How to Give Admin Rights to a User in Windows 10
When you follow these steps, you’ll be giving a user administrative privileges so they can manage system settings, install software, and perform other high-level tasks.
Step 1: Open Settings
Press the Windows key and I at the same time to open the Settings app.
Using the keyboard shortcut is the fastest way to access Settings without navigating through multiple menus.
Step 2: Navigate to Accounts
Click on "Accounts" to access user-related settings.
Here, you’ll find options related to user accounts, sign-in options, and other account settings.
Step 3: Access Family & Other Users
Select "Family & other users" from the sidebar.
This section is where you’ll manage the user accounts on your device.
Step 4: Choose the User
Click on the user you want to grant admin rights to and then click "Change account type."
Make sure you select the correct account to avoid giving unnecessary admin rights to the wrong person.
Step 5: Change Account Type to Administrator
Select "Administrator" from the dropdown menu and click "OK."
This action will grant the user admin permissions, allowing them to manage system settings and install software.
After completing these steps, the selected user will have admin rights, enabling them to perform administrative tasks like installing software, changing system settings, and more.
Tips for Giving Admin Rights to a User in Windows 10
- Always double-check that you’re granting admin rights to the correct user.
- Only give admin rights to users who need them to avoid security risks.
- Remember to remove admin rights if the user no longer needs them.
- Keep your operating system up-to-date to ensure all security patches are applied.
- Consider setting up a system restore point before making changes to user privileges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I give admin rights to a user?
The user will be able to perform administrative tasks, such as installing software and changing system settings.
Can I remove admin rights later?
Yes, you can easily revert the account to standard user by following the same steps and selecting "Standard User" instead of "Administrator."
Is it safe to give admin rights?
Only if necessary and to trusted individuals. Admin rights allow access to critical system settings, which can affect system stability and security.
Can I create a new admin account?
Yes, you can create a new user account and assign it admin rights by selecting "Add someone else to this PC" under "Family & other users."
What if I forget which account is an admin?
You can check the account type by going to "Accounts" in Settings and looking under "Family & other users."
Summary
- Open Settings
- Navigate to Accounts
- Access Family & Other Users
- Choose the User
- Change Account Type to Administrator
Conclusion
Granting admin rights on Windows 10 is a straightforward process that can be done in just a few steps. This is particularly useful when a user needs to install software or change system settings. However, it’s essential to be cautious and only grant admin privileges to those who genuinely need them to maintain system security. If you found this article helpful, consider exploring other Windows 10 guides to maximize your system’s potential. Happy computing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.