How to Enable Windows 11 Built-in Administrator Account

This post shows students and new users how to enable Windows 11 built-in administrator accounts from the command line.

All Windows 11 computers have a hidden built-in administrator account, which is disabled by default. When setting up a new computer, you’re asked to create a user account. The first account you create will be added to the administrator’s group and given administrator privileges.

Enabling the built-in administrator account in Windows 11 can be useful when you need full control over the system and its resources. This account has privileges that allow you to perform tasks that a regular user account cannot perform, such as installing software and making system-wide changes.

It can also be helpful if your regular user account is corrupted or locked out. However, it is important to be cautious when using the built-in administrator account, as it can be dangerous if you are not familiar with the tasks you are performing. It does not have the same UAC protections as regular administrator accounts.

To enable the built-in administrator account, follow the steps below:

Enable the built-in administrator account from the command line

To enable the built-in administrator account from the command line prompt, open it as administrator, as shown in the image below.

When the command prompt opens, run the commands below to enable the built-in administrator account in Windows 11.

net user Administrator /active:yes

After running the command, you should get a success message like the one below.

That will enable the account. However, you won’t be able to log in with it since you don’t know the password.

To enable the built-in administrator account and create a new password for it, run the commands below:

net user Administrator type_strong_passwore_here /active:yes

Please type_strong_password_here with the password you want to use with the administrator account.

With that, you should be able to log out from your current account and log in with the built-in administrator account that was originally disabled and hidden.

After enabling the account, you should be able to log in as the built-in administrator.

Disable the built-in administrator account

If you wish to deactivate the built-in administrator account, simply run the commands below from an elevated command prompt window.

net user Administrator /active:no

Running the above command will deactivate and hide the built-in administrator account from the log-in Windows.

Conclusion:

• Enabling the built-in administrator account in Windows 11 provides full control over system settings and resources.
• It can be a useful troubleshooting tool if your primary account is corrupted or locked out.
• Care should be taken when using this account, as it lacks the same UAC protections found in regular accounts.
• Remember to set a strong password for the administrator account to enhance security.
• Disabling the built-in account when not in use is recommended to maintain system security.