How to Open the Command Prompt as Administrator in Windows
Last Updated : 12 Apr, 2025
The Command Prompt is a powerful tool in Windows that lets you run commands to manage files, troubleshoot problems, and control system settings. But some commands require administrator access to work properly. Opening the Command Prompt as an administrator—often called “elevated mode” gives you full control to perform advanced tasks on your computer.
In this guide, we will discuss quick and easy ways to open the Command Prompt with administrator rights on your Windows 10 and 11.
Method 1: Using Windows Search (Windows 10 & Windows 11)
Note: This method is suitable for both Windows 10 and Windows 11
Step 1: Open the Start Menu and Type "CMD"
Press the Windows Key or Click on the Start Menu and Type Command Prompt or CMD and proceed ahead.
Open Command PromptStep 2: Select "Run as Administrator"
Right-click on "Command Prompt" and select "Run as administrator''.
Run CMD as AdminMethod 2: Run Dialog Box (Win 10 & 11)
Note: This method is suitable for both Windows 10 and Windows 11
Step 1: Open Dialog Box or Press Win + R
First, press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog. Now, type "CMD" or Command prompt
Run Dialogue (Win + R)Step 2: Hold down Ctrl + Shift to enter Admin Mode
Press Ctrl + Shift + Enter or click "OK" while holding Ctrl + Shift.
Use Dialog BoxYou might be asked to enter admin password. Provide the same & proceed with the Command Prompt administrator rights.
Note: This method is suitable for both Windows 10 and Windows 11
Go to Start Button or press Win + X
Win + XStep 2: Select Admin
Now, click on "Terminal (Admin)" from the menu.
Use TerminalStep 3: Hover and click to visit Command Prompt
Then, Click on the arrow from the menu and Select "Command Prompt"
Select Command PromptBy following this method, anyone can open command prompt using these 3 simple steps.
Note: This method is suitable forWindows 11
Click on the Start menu and type Windows Tools
Step 2: Click to Open as Administrator
Make a right click and select "Run as Administrator"
Windows ToolsMethod 5: Using Task Manager (Win 10 & Win 11)
Note: This method is suitable for both Windows 10 and Windows 11
Step 1: Open Task Manager and click to Run New Task
Click the Start Menu and type "Task Manager"
Step 2: Create a New Task to Run CMD with Administrative Rights
Create a new task in the File menu and select Run New Task. Check "Create this task with administrative privileges", and click OK.
Using Task ManagerMethod 6: Use Control Panel (Windows 11)
Note: This method is suitable for Windows 11
Ypu can use Windows Control Panel to open Command Prompt with admin rights, here's what you need to do:
Step 1: Press Win + R and type Control Panel
Now, on the Control Panel Search bar type "Windows Tools" and click on it.
Use Control PanelStep 2: Click to Run as Administrator
Right-click on the Command Prompt and Click Run as administrator.
Run as AdminMethod 7: Windows File Explorer
Note: This method is suitable for both Windows 10 and Windows 11
Step 1: Open File Explorer
Open File Explorer or press Win + E and type CMD
Step 2: Select "Run as Administrator"
Make a right-click and select "Run as admin"
Through File ExplorerMethod 8: Using Desktop Shortcut
Note: This method is suitable for both Windows 10 and Windows 11
Step 1: Open File Explorer
Press Win + E and type Command Prompt or CMD
Step 2: Show more options > Create Shortcut
Press Win + D to get the desktop then right-click CMD then from the menu select "Properties" and then navigate to the "Shortcut" tab
Step 3: Create your custom shortcut
In the Shortcut key field, press a key combination of your choice.
Desktop ShortcutWhy Open Command Prompt as Administrator
The Command Prompt or CMD is a powerful tool for performing various system tasks. Running it as an administrator grants you admin access to:
- Modify System Settings
- Run Admin commands like sfc /scannow i.e. system scans
- Manage User Accounts
- Access and edit restricted files
Without administrator access, many essential commands will not work, so knowing how to open it with admin access is critical for users who manage system settings, developers, or anyone performing any troubleshooting related tasks.
Conclusion
Understanding how to open the Command Prompt as Administrator is essential for both casual users and power users. Whether you're managing system configurations, running scans, or troubleshooting issues, knowing how to run CMD with elevated privileges will enhance your ability to manage your system effectively.
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