How to Open the Command Prompt as Administrator in Windows

The Command Prompt is a powerful tool in Windows that lets you run commands to manage files, troubleshoot problems, and control system settings. But some commands require administrator access to work properly. Opening the Command Prompt as an administrator—often called “elevated mode” gives you full control to perform advanced tasks on your computer.

In this guide, we will discuss quick and easy ways to open the Command Prompt with administrator rights on your Windows 10 and 11.

Method 1: Using Windows Search (Windows 10 & Windows 11)

Note: This method is suitable for both Windows 10 and Windows 11

Step 1: Open the Start Menu and Type "CMD"

Press the Windows Key or Click on the Start Menu and Type Command Prompt or CMD and proceed ahead.

Step 2: Select "Run as Administrator"

Right-click on "Command Prompt" and select "Run as administrator''.

Method 2: Run Dialog Box (Win 10 & 11)

Note: This method is suitable for both Windows 10 and Windows 11

Step 1: Open Dialog Box or Press Win + R

First, press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog. Now, type "CMD" or Command prompt

Step 2: Hold down Ctrl + Shift to enter Admin Mode

Press Ctrl + Shift + Enter or click "OK" while holding Ctrl + Shift.

You might be asked to enter admin password. Provide the same & proceed with the Command Prompt administrator rights.

Method 3: Quick Access Menu (Windows 10 & 11)

Note: This method is suitable for both Windows 10 and Windows 11

Step 1: Open Power User Menu

Go to Start Button or press Win + X

Step 2: Select Admin

Now, click on "Terminal (Admin)" from the menu.

Step 3: Hover and click to visit Command Prompt

Then, Click on the arrow from the menu and Select "Command Prompt"

By following this method, anyone can open command prompt using these 3 simple steps.

Method 4: Use Windows Tools (Windows 11)

Note: This method is suitable forWindows 11

Step 1: Type Windows Tools in the search box

Click on the Start menu and type Windows Tools

Step 2: Click to Open as Administrator

Make a right click and select "Run as Administrator"

Method 5: Using Task Manager (Win 10 & Win 11)

Note: This method is suitable for both Windows 10 and Windows 11

Step 1: Open Task Manager and click to Run New Task

Click the Start Menu and type "Task Manager"

Step 2: Create a New Task to Run CMD with Administrative Rights

Create a new task in the File menu and select Run New Task. Check "Create this task with administrative privileges", and click OK.

Method 6: Use Control Panel (Windows 11)

Note: This method is suitable for Windows 11

Ypu can use Windows Control Panel to open Command Prompt with admin rights, here's what you need to do:

Step 1: Press Win + R and type Control Panel

Now, on the Control Panel Search bar type "Windows Tools" and click on it.

Step 2: Click to Run as Administrator

Right-click on the Command Prompt and Click Run as administrator.

Method 7: Windows File Explorer

Note: This method is suitable for both Windows 10 and Windows 11

Step 1: Open File Explorer

Open File Explorer or press Win + E and type CMD

Step 2: Select "Run as Administrator"

Make a right-click and select "Run as admin"

Method 8: Using Desktop Shortcut

Note: This method is suitable for both Windows 10 and Windows 11

Step 1: Open File Explorer

Press Win + E and type Command Prompt or CMD

Step 2: Show more options > Create Shortcut

Press Win + D to get the desktop then right-click CMD then from the menu select "Properties" and then navigate to the "Shortcut" tab

Step 3: Create your custom shortcut

In the Shortcut key field, press a key combination of your choice.

Why Open Command Prompt as Administrator

The Command Prompt or CMD is a powerful tool for performing various system tasks. Running it as an administrator grants you admin access to:

• Modify System Settings
• Run Admin commands like sfc /scannow i.e. system scans
• Manage User Accounts
• Access and edit restricted files

Without administrator access, many essential commands will not work, so knowing how to open it with admin access is critical for users who manage system settings, developers, or anyone performing any troubleshooting related tasks.

Conclusion

Understanding how to open the Command Prompt as Administrator is essential for both casual users and power users. Whether you're managing system configurations, running scans, or troubleshooting issues, knowing how to run CMD with elevated privileges will enhance your ability to manage your system effectively.

saurabhkumarsharma05

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Article Tags :

• TechTips
• How To
• Command Prompt