To enable the built-in Administrator account in Windows 10 with Command Prompt, open Command Prompt as administrator and run net user administrator /active:yes. Then give it a password with net user administrator *. The account appears on the sign-in screen. When you’re done, turn it off again with net user administrator /active:no. These commands only work if you’re already signed in with an account that has administrator rights; they aren’t a way around a forgotten password.
Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025. Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) now run until October 12, 2027.
Quick Answer
Admin Command Prompt > net user administrator /active:yes > net user administrator * to set a password.
Enable the Built-in Administrator
- Search Start for cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and choose Run as administrator. Approve the prompt.
- Type net user administrator /active:yes and press Enter.
- Type net user administrator * and press Enter, then type a strong password twice (nothing appears as you type).
- Sign out. The Administrator account appears on the sign-in screen.
Turn It Off Again
From an admin Command Prompt, run net user administrator /active:no. Microsoft recommends keeping this account disabled and using a standard administrator account for daily work, because the built-in account runs everything elevated without prompts.
Other Ways
| Method | Availability |
|---|---|
| Computer Management > Local Users and Groups > Users > Administrator > uncheck Account is disabled | Windows 10 Pro and higher |
| Make your own account an administrator (Settings > Accounts > Family & other users) | Needs an existing admin |
Troubleshooting
- “System error 5 has occurred. Access is denied.”: Command Prompt isn’t running as administrator, or your account isn’t an administrator.
- “The user name could not be found”: The account may be renamed or the system language uses a different name. Run net user to list accounts.
- Locked out of every admin account? Use legitimate recovery; see getting back in when you forget your password.
- Need admin rights in Windows 11? See getting administrator privileges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to leave the Administrator account on?
It’s safer to turn it off after use and protect it with a strong password.
Does this work on Windows 11?
Yes. The commands are the same.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
- Run net user administrator /active:yes.
- Set a password with net user administrator *.
- Disable it again when done.
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.