How to Restore ‘Run as Different User’ in Windows 11

Windows allows you to start an application using a different set of credentials than your current login. This is known as the Run as different user feature. Why use it? It is essential for IT pros or power users who need to perform administrative tasks without logging out of their primary account. What happens when you use it? The application launches with the permissions and settings of the second user, keeping your main session secure and separate.

What Happens When You Enable It?

Once enabled, you gain the ability to right-click on executable files or Start menu items to launch them with elevated privileges or as a different user account. This is particularly useful in a domain environment where you might need to run a tool as a domain admin while logged in as a standard user.

Method 1: Using the Settings App

This is the safest and easiest way to enable the feature.

1. Open the Settings app by pressing Windows key + I.
2. Click System on the left sidebar.
3. Select For developers.
4. Find the File Explorer section.
5. Toggle the switch for Show option to run as different user in Start to On.

Method 2: Using Registry Editor

[ADMIN REQUIRED] If the settings menu is restricted, you can use the Registry.

1. Press Windows key + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Explorer
3. Right-click in the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
4. Name it ShowRunasDifferentuserinStart.
5. Set the value to 1 to enable it.
6. Restart your computer.

Quick Tip: The Shift + Right-Click Trick

You do not always need to enable the menu option. Simply hold the Shift key while right-clicking an application icon or file. You will see Run as different user appear in the extended context menu automatically.

Troubleshooting: Secondary Logon Service

If the option does not appear, your Secondary Logon Service might be disabled. This service is required for the feature to function. Press Windows key + R, type services.msc, find Secondary Logon, right-click it, and select Start. Ensure the Startup type is set to Automatic.

Security Warning

Using domain admin credentials on a shared or public machine is risky. Always ensure you close the application immediately after finishing your task to prevent unauthorized access to elevated privileges.

Summary

Restoring the Run as different user option in Windows 11 helps you manage permissions effectively. Whether you use the Settings app, the Registry, or the Shift + Right-click shortcut, you can now easily execute tasks with different credentials. Always ensure the Secondary Logon Service is running if you encounter issues.” }