How to Enable or Disable UAC in Windows 11

User Account Control (UAC) is a built-in security feature in Windows 11. It acts as a gatekeeper for your computer.

Why use UAC?

UAC stops apps from making unwanted changes to your system without your permission. It keeps your computer safe from viruses and accidental damage.

What happens when you change it?

If you turn it off, your computer will not ask for your permission when programs try to install or change settings. This makes your system faster to use but much less secure.

Note: You must be signed in as an administrator to change these settings.

How to disable UAC in Windows 11

The easiest way to change this setting is through the Control Panel.

1. Click the Start button and type “Control Panel”. Open the app.

2. Click on User Accounts, then click User Accounts again.

3. Click the link that says Change User Account Control settings.

4. Move the slider all the way to the bottom to Never notify. Click OK.

5. You will see a final prompt asking for permission. Click Yes.

UAC is now turned off for your account.

How to enable UAC

If you want to turn it back on, follow the same steps above. Instead of moving the slider to the bottom, move it back to the middle position. This is the default setting that keeps your computer protected. Click OK to save.

Advanced users can also manage these settings via the registry at HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System using the EnableLUA key.

Summary

UAC is a vital security tool. While you can turn it off, doing so makes your computer vulnerable to malicious software. Only disable it if you have a specific reason, and always turn it back on when you are finished.