How to Use the Run as Command in Windows 11
The Run as command in Windows 11 lets you run a program using the account of a different user, often an administrator.
This is important when you need to do things that your normal account doesn’t have permission for, like making big system changes or fixing certain problems.
For example, you can use “Run as” to open the Command Prompt with administrator rights. This lets you use powerful commands like `sfc /scannow` to check for system file errors.
You can apply this command to programs (.exe files), scripts (.bat), and even some installers (.msi).
To run a program as a different user in Windows 11, right-click the file, select “Show more options,” then choose “Run as different user” or “Run as administrator.” Enter the required username and password to proceed. This lets you execute tasks with elevated privileges.
How to Use Run as in File Explorer
Accessing the ‘Run as’ command directly from File Explorer allows you to open a file or program as a different user. To do this, hold down the SHIFT key while right-clicking the file or program. Then, choose ‘Run as different user’ or ‘Run as administrator’ from the context menu that appears.
- Open File Explorer by pressing
Win + E. Open File Explorer - Find the program or file you want to run (like a
.exeor.batfile). - Hold down the
SHIFTkey on your keyboard. - Right-click the file. Then click Show more options.
- Choose Run as different user or Run as administrator from the menu. FLAG: Running as administrator requires admin privileges.
- Enter the username and password of the account you want to use. Then click OK.
Right-click menu to run as different user or administrator
Enter username and password to run as different user
How to Use Run as from the Taskbar
Running an app as a different user from the Taskbar is a quick process in Windows 11. Hold down the SHIFT key, then right-click the app’s icon on your Taskbar. Select either ‘Run as different user’ or ‘Run as administrator’ from the options that appear.
- Hold the
SHIFTkey. - Right-click the app’s icon on the Taskbar.
- Click Run as different user or Run as administrator. FLAG: Running as administrator requires admin privileges.
- Type the username and password. Then click OK.
Run as different user or administrator from the Taskbar
Enter credentials to run program as different user
How to Use Run as from Command Prompt or PowerShell
The Run as command can be used within Command Prompt or PowerShell by typing a specific command. The format is ‘runas /user:”username” “Full path to the program or file”‘. Press Enter afterward to execute it with the specified user’s permissions.
- Open Command Prompt or PowerShell. Command Prompt or PowerShell
- Type the following command:
runas /user:"<username>" "Full path to the program or file"Example:
runas /user:"user123" "C:\Users\user123\Documents\file.txt"If you are on a work or school network (domain), use this format instead:
runas /user:"domain\user123" "C:\Users\user123\Documents\file.txt"Other Notes
An alternative method involves the Start menu. Right-click apps in the All Apps list. Note that some applications, such as those from the Windows Store, do not support running as a different user.
Summary
The Run as command in Windows is a valuable tool that allows you to open programs or files as another user, like an administrator. You can easily employ this command from File Explorer, the Taskbar, or even the Command Prompt and PowerShell to perform tasks requiring different user permissions.- Run as lets you open programs or files as another user or administrator.
- You can use it in File Explorer, the Taskbar, Command Prompt, or PowerShell.
- This is useful when you need admin rights but are logged in as a regular user.
- The Windows Store app does not support running as a different user.
Learn More
For more details, check out the official Microsoft guide: Microsoft.com – Use Run as to start an app as admin
What's the difference between sudo and runas?
The Run as command in Windows allows you to run programs or files as any user, including an administrator. It always requests the target user’s password, which differs from sudo on Linux/macOS.
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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.
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