You cannot legitimately remove another Windows 10 administrator account merely by bypassing its password. To delete an account, sign in with a different administrator account that you are authorized to use. You do not normally need the password of the account being removed, but Windows requires administrator permission.
How to Delete an Administrator Account in Windows 10
Back up any files in that user’s profile that must be kept before deleting it.
Step 1: Sign in to a different administrator account
Use an administrator account you are authorized to access.
Step 2: Open Accounts
Select Start > Settings > Accounts.
Step 3: Open Family & other users
Select the account-management section for other users.
Step 4: Select the account
Select the account you want to remove and choose Remove.
Step 5: Confirm the deletion
Read the warning carefully. Delete account and data removes that local profile’s data from the PC, so confirm only after preserving needed files.
If You Do Not Know Any Administrator Password
Use Microsoft’s supported account-recovery options. For a Microsoft account, use Microsoft’s sign-in recovery process. For a local account, use configured recovery options such as security questions or a password reset disk when available. For a work, school, or someone else’s computer, contact the authorized administrator or owner. This article does not provide password-bypass techniques.
Deleting an Account vs. Removing Administrator Rights
If you want to retain the account but prevent administrative changes, change it to a standard user from another authorized administrator account instead of deleting it.
Windows 10 Support Note
Normal Windows 10 support ended October 14, 2025. Microsoft recommends Windows 11 on compatible hardware; eligible Windows 10 PCs can use ESU during the transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need the removed user’s password?
Not if you are already using another authorized administrator account.
Does deleting the account delete its files?
The removal workflow can delete local profile data, so back up needed files first.
Can I delete the only administrator?
Do not leave the PC without a usable administrator account.
Can I bypass an unknown administrator password?
Use supported recovery options instead.
Can I make the account a standard user?
Yes, if you only need to remove administrative privileges.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.