Enable Shield Icon in Windows Terminal Admin Mode
You enable the shield icon in Windows Terminal admin mode to visually confirm you’re running with elevated privileges.
This feature, introduced in Windows Terminal Preview version 1.23.10353.0, displays a distinct shield icon in the window’s title bar. It serves as a quick, unmistakable indicator that you are operating in administrator mode.
The shield icon helps you avoid making unintended changes to critical system files by providing a constant visual cue. When you turn this setting on, the icon appears whenever you launch Windows Terminal as administrator. Turning it off will remove the icon, even when running with elevated permissions.
Open Windows Terminal Settings, navigate to the Appearance tab, and toggle the “Display a shield in the title bar when Windows Terminal is running as Administrator” option to On. Save your changes to enable the shield icon for elevated sessions.
How to toggle the shield icon
Note: This process does not require administrator privileges to change the setting itself, but you will need them if you want to run the Terminal in that mode later.
- Open the Windows Terminal app. You can find it by clicking the Start menu and searching for “Terminal.”
- Click the down arrow button at the top of the window and select Settings (or press Ctrl + , on your keyboard).
- Click the Appearance tab on the left side of the menu.
- Look for the option labeled “Display a shield in the title bar when Windows Terminal is running as Administrator.”
- Toggle the switch to On to see the shield or Off to hide it.
- Click the Save button at the bottom of the window to apply your changes.
Reference: Microsoft
Summary
- The shield icon is a visual indicator that your Terminal has elevated “Administrator” rights.
- You can easily turn this icon on or off through the Appearance section of the Terminal settings.
- This feature helps you stay aware of your current permission level to keep your system safe.
- Changes take effect immediately after you click the Save button.
How do I get rid of the shield icon in 🪟 Windows 10?
Then, go to Control Panel and click on the Yellow or Blue shield icon. Double-click on it to get rid of the shield. You can also use the command line to run the application without prompting.
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Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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