How to Enable or Disable UAC in Windows 11
You can enable or disable User Account Control (UAC) in Windows 11 through the Control Panel or by searching for “UAC” in the Start menu.
User Account Control (UAC) is a built-in Windows security feature that helps prevent unauthorized changes to your computer. It works by prompting you for permission before allowing apps to make changes that require administrator-level access.
This prompt is essential for stopping malicious software from making changes without your knowledge. For example, UAC will appear when you install new software or update important system settings.
Windows 11, like previous versions, defaults to a balanced UAC setting for optimal security. While disabling UAC can reduce prompts, it significantly exposes your system to malware and accidental user errors.
To enable or disable UAC in Windows 11, open Control Panel, navigate to User Accounts, select Change User Account Control settings, and move the slider. For advanced users, modify the EnableLUA value in the registry at 🗝️HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System.
How to Disable UAC in 🪟 Windows 11
You can turn off UAC in Windows 11 using the Control Panel if you have administrator rights. This is the simplest way to disable UAC on your computer. Just follow a few steps in the Control Panel to adjust the settings.
- Click the Start button and type “ Control Panel”. Open the app.
windows 11 control panel - Click on User Accounts, then click User Accounts again.
windows 11 user account select control panel - Click the link that says Change User Account Control settings.
windows 11 change user account control settings - Move the slider all the way to the bottom to Never notify. Click OK.
windows uac disable to never notify - You will see a final prompt asking for permission. Click Yes.
windows 11 uac prompt to allow changes
Advanced Methods: Registry and Group Policy
For those comfortable with advanced settings, you can change UAC settings using the Windows Registry or Group Policy Editor. While these methods offer more control, proceed with caution as incorrect changes can affect your computer’s stability.
- Press ⊞ Win+R, type
regedit, and press Enter. (Requires Admin Privileges) - Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System - Find the
EnableLUAkey. Set the value to0to disable UAC or1to enable it .
For enterprise environments, you can use the Local Security Policy editor (secpol.msc) to manage UAC behavior for all users via the Security Options folder.
Troubleshooting UAC Prompts
If User Account Control keeps asking for permission even after you’ve turned it off, it might be because your user profile is damaged or a security rule is blocking your changes.
Summary
UAC is a vital security tool. While you can turn it off, doing so makes your computer vulnerable to malicious software. For more information, visit the official Microsoft documentation. Only disable it if you have a specific reason, and always turn it back on when you are finished.
Is it safe to disable UAC in 🪟 Windows 11?
No, it is not safe. Disabling UAC removes a critical layer of protection that prevents unauthorized apps from making system-wide changes. Without it, malware can easily infect your computer, modify system files, or steal your data without triggering any warnings or requiring your explicit approval.
What is the difference between ‘Never notify’ and ‘Always notify’?
‘Always notify’ triggers a prompt for every single change, including Windows settings. ‘Never notify’ turns off UAC entirely, meaning no prompts appear. The default setting is a balance, notifying you only when apps attempt to make changes to your computer, which is the recommended security practice.
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About the Author
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.
I do these steps but when I restart the PC, it becomes enabled.
I have this issue with windows defender too.
when I disable these two, after restart they are enable again
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