In Windows 11, the hidden Administrator account offers full administrative privileges, making it a valuable resource for troubleshooting and performing advanced tasks. While this account is typically disabled to enhance system security, enabling it can be useful for users who need to perform certain administrative functions without the restrictions of standard user accounts. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to activate the hidden Administrator account in Windows 11, ensuring you can access your system’s full capabilities when needed. Let’s get started!
Also Read: How To Fix Your IT Administrator Has Limited Access (Page Not Available) Error
What Is The Windows Administrative Account
The hidden Administrator account in Windows is a built-in user account with full administrative privileges, allowing complete control over the system. This account is typically disabled by default for security reasons, as it can bypass many of the protections provided by User Account Control (UAC). This account is created to troubleshoot and perform administrative tasks that require elevated permissions.
The Windows Administrative Account can be enabled via Command Prompt, PowerShell, or Local Security Policy. You should use it only when necessary and disable it afterward. Once enabled, the account appears on the login screen, allowing users to log in directly.
Why Is The Windows Administrator Account Hidden
- Administrator accounts have elevated privileges that standard users do not possess, so making this account accessible to everyone could jeopardize your data.
- This account is used for high-level system operations, so keeping it hidden reduces the risk of errors from users who need help understanding its implications.
- It helps differentiate between routine administrative tasks and advanced troubleshooting needs.
How To Enable The Windows 11 Hidden Administrator Account
Prerequisite: Use The Local Users And Groups Tool To Enable The Account
Step 1: Press Win + R to launch the RUN box.
Step 2: Copy and paste “lusrmgr.msc” in the text field and click OK.
Step 3: A new box will open where you must click on Users in the left panel.
Step 4: Double-click on the Account name “Administrator.” Check the description. It should read “Built-in account administering the computer/domain.”
Step 5: A new box will open, and you must uncheck the box before “Account is disabled.”
Step 6: Click on Apply, followed by OK.
Note: Once the Administrator Account is enabled, you can activate it using any of the three methods mentioned below:
Method 1: Use Command Prompt
Activating the hidden Administrator account in Windows 11 through Command Prompt is a simple process providing elevated administrative task privileges. To begin, just open Command Prompt as an administrator and follow these steps:
Step 1: Press Win + R to open the RUN box and type “CMD.”
Step 2: Press Ctrl+Shift+Enter to open the Command Prompt in admin mode.
Step 3: Copy and paste the following command with the Enter key.
net user administrator /active:yes
Step 4: Press Win + L to lock your PC.
Step 5: You will find the new admin account, which you can click to log in without a username or password.
Note: It is important to deactivate this admin account, or anyone with admin access can enter your PC and make changes. To deactivate, copy and paste this command by going to your previous account into the command prompt window.
net user administrator /active:no
Also Read: How to Fix the “This Installation Is Forbidden by System Policy” Error On Windows
Method 2: Use PowerShell
PowerShell is a powerful command-line tool that allows you to execute administrative tasks easily. By leveraging PowerShell, you can efficiently enable the hidden Administrator account. Here is what you need to do.
Step 1: Press Win + X to open the Windows Power Menu and choose Terminal (Admin).
Step 2: The PowerShell tool will open in admin mode. Copy and paste the following command and press the Enter key:
Enable-LocalUser -Name “Administrator”
Note: To disable the admin account using Powershell, use this command:
Disable-LocalUser -Name “Administrator”
Also Read: Effective Ways to Get Rid of Powershell.exe Pop-Up Virus on Windows
Method 3: Use Local Policy Tool
Enabling the hidden Administrator account in Windows 11 through the Local Policy Tool offers a straightforward way to gain elevated access to administrative tasks. This method allows you to adjust settings to help you manage your system more effectively. Here are the steps:
Step 1: Press Win + R to launch the Run box and type Secpol.msc.
Step 2: Press “OK” to open the Local Security Policy box.
Step 3: Click on Local Policies to reveal options and click on Security Options.
Step 4: In the right panel, locate and right-click “Account: Administrator account status”.
Step 5: Choose Properties from the context menu.
Step 6: In the Properties box, click on the circular button before Enabled and then on Apply, followed by OK.
Note: You can repeat the steps and select Disabled to deactivate the admin work after your purpose is over.
Also Read: Diagnostics Policy Service Is Not Running – Causes & Fixes
Editor’s Bonus Tip: Use Advanced System Optimizer To Optimize Your PC
The hidden admin account is generally used to troubleshoot your PC due to errors and issues. It is important to keep your PC running in an optimal state to avoid minor and major issues, and this is only possible through regular optimization. We recommend using the Advanced System Optimizer tool, which will help you clear all the junk files, optimize the Registry, update drivers, uninstall unwanted programs, and much more under one single interface. Here is how you can optimize your PC with a few mouse clicks.
Step 1: Download and Install Advanced System Optimizer.
Step 2: Launch the software and click the Start Smart PC Care button.
Step 3: Wait for the app to detect issues and unwanted files on your PC, then click the Optimize button.
Step 4: Follow the onscreen instructions and reboot your PC.
[ Conclusion ]
Enabling the hidden Administrator account in Windows 11 can provide you with enhanced control and the ability to perform advanced tasks that standard accounts may not allow. While this powerful tool is valuable for troubleshooting and system management, it’s important to use it responsibly to avoid potential security risks. After completing your tasks, remember to disable the account to maintain your system’s security. Following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively leverage the hidden Administrator account while ensuring your Windows 11 environment remains secure and efficient.
