How to Run Apps as Administrator in Windows 11

This post shows students and new users how to run an application as an administrator in Windows 11.

By default, when you open or execute an app from your desktop, it will open with standard permissions.

In standard mode, the apps will function as designed and allow any or most users to run them without issues. Some apps are built and designed to open and be run by administrators only. Even a user member of the administrator group won’t run it unless the app is executed in administrator mode.

There are multiple ways to execute an app with administrative rights. You can run it from the command prompt or right-click the app and select Run as administrator. Whatever methods you use, the app will open with administrator permissions.

You’ll always have to do this to run the app as an administrator. However, Windows has a feature that you can set on apps so that they will always run in administrator mode without the usual methods above, and the steps below will show you how to do that.

How to open an app as an administrator in Windows 11

As mentioned above, most apps are open in standard mode with standard permissions by default. Use the steps below if you have an app that needs to be opened with administrative privileges.

In Windows, to open an app as administrator, simply right-click on the app’s icon, then select Run as administrator, as shown below.

Apps in the Start menu follow the same process. Right-click its icon and select Run as administrator.

How to always run an app as an administrator in Windows 11

Windows allows you to set an app to always run as administrator without right-clicking and using the methods above. First, you’ll need to locate the executable file of the app you want to always open with elevated privileges in File Explorer.

If the app has a Desktop icon, right-click it and select Properties from the context menu below.

Under Compatibility, select the highlighted box on the Properties pane that reads “Run this program as an administrator.”

Click the OK button to apply your changes.

The next time you run the app, it will run as administrator by default.

That’s it!

Conclusion:

• Running applications as an administrator in Windows 11 provides necessary permissions for certain programs to function properly.
• You can quickly execute apps with administrative rights by using the Run as administrator option.
• For convenience, Windows 11 allows users to set specific apps to always run as administrator, streamlining your workflow.
• Understanding these steps can enhance your productivity and ensure smoother operation of essential applications.
• Always remember to use administrative privileges responsibly to avoid unintended changes to system settings.