How to Change Administrator on Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

Changing the administrator on Windows 10 may sound intimidating, but it’s actually quite simple. All you need is a few clicks here and there. Just follow the steps below to change the administrator account on your Windows 10 machine, and you’ll be done in no time.

Step by Step Tutorial: How to Change Administrator on Windows 10

This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to change the administrator on a Windows 10 computer. By the end, you’ll know how to transfer administrative rights to another user account.

Step 1: Open Settings

First, click the Start menu and select the "Settings" gear icon.

The Settings menu is where you’ll find a lot of options for customizing your computer, including user accounts.

Step 2: Go to Accounts

Next, in the Settings menu, find and click on "Accounts".

In this section, you’ll be able to manage all the user accounts on your computer. It’s like your digital Rolodex.

Step 3: Select Family & Other Users

Inside Accounts, click on the "Family & other users" tab on the left.

This tab shows all the users who have accounts on your computer. You can add or remove users here too.

Step 4: Choose the Account to Change

Find the account you want to make an administrator and click on it. Then, click on the "Change account type" button.

At this point, a dialog box will pop up, giving you the option to change the account type from standard to administrator.

Step 5: Set to Administrator

In the dialog box that appears, select "Administrator" from the dropdown menu and hit "OK".

By doing this, you are officially giving the selected account administrative rights. This allows them to make changes to the system settings.

After completing these steps, the chosen account will now have administrative rights. They can now install software, change system settings, and manage other user accounts.

Tips for Changing Administrator on Windows 10

• Backup your data: Always back up important data before making changes to user accounts.
• Use a strong password: Ensure the new administrator account has a strong, unique password.
• Regular account auditing: Periodically check user accounts to ensure no unauthorized changes have been made.
• Limited admin accounts: Try to limit the number of administrator accounts to minimize security risks.
• Keep software updated: Ensure that the new administrator keeps the system and software up-to-date for security.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have more than one administrator on Windows 10?

Yes, you can have multiple administrators, but it’s generally safer to limit the number to minimize security risks.

Will changing the administrator affect my files?

No, changing the administrator won’t affect your personal files or applications.

How can I remove administrative rights from an account?

Follow the same steps but choose "Standard User" instead of "Administrator" in Step 5.

Can I change the administrator back to a standard user later?

Absolutely, you can change the account type back to a standard user at any time.

What if I forget the administrator password?

You can reset the password if you have another administrator account. Otherwise, you may need to use password recovery tools.

Summary

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Accounts.
3. Select Family & Other Users.
4. Choose the account to change.
5. Set to Administrator.

Conclusion

Changing the administrator on Windows 10 is a straightforward process that can be done in just a few steps. Knowing how to manage user accounts is essential for maintaining the security and functionality of your computer. Whether you’re setting up a new admin account for a family member or a colleague, the process is quick and easy. Just remember to back up important data and use strong passwords. If you’re interested in further reading, Microsoft’s support website offers detailed articles on user account management. Ready to change that administrator? Dive in and make those changes confidently!