To run a game as administrator in Windows 11, right-click its desktop shortcut or .exe file and choose Run as administrator, then click Yes. To make it run as administrator every time, open the file’s Properties, go to the Compatibility tab, and tick Run this program as an administrator. Most games don’t need this, but it can fix mods that won’t load, save files that won’t write, or older games that crash. Here are the steps, including for Steam and other launchers.
When running as administrator helps
- The game is installed in C:\Program Files and can’t save settings, mods, or patches there.
- An older game was written before Windows restricted program permissions.
- A mod manager, trainer, or overlay tool needs to interact with the game.
- Support or a game’s FAQ specifically tells you to do it.
If a game runs fine, leave it as is. Programs with administrator rights can change system files, so it’s best used only when needed.
Method 1: Run as administrator once
- Find the game’s desktop shortcut, or its icon in the Start menu.
- Right-click it. In the Start menu, choose More > Run as administrator. On the desktop, choose Run as administrator (in some cases under Show more options).
- Click Yes in the User Account Control prompt.
Keyboard shortcut: select the game in Start search and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter.
Method 2: Always run as administrator
- Right-click the game’s shortcut or .exe file and choose Properties.
- Open the Compatibility tab.
- Tick Run this program as an administrator.
- Click Apply and OK.
To apply it for every Windows user on the PC, click Change settings for all users on the same tab first.
Setting it on the actual .exe is more reliable than on a shortcut, because launchers often start the .exe directly. To find the .exe, right-click the shortcut and choose Open file location.
Games from Steam, Epic, and other launchers
Launchers start the game’s .exe themselves, so set Method 2 on the game’s .exe inside its install folder:
- Steam: in your Library, right-click the game, choose Manage > Browse local files, then set the .exe to run as administrator. Our guide on running a Steam game as administrator has the details.
- Epic Games Launcher: in your Library, click the three dots on the game, choose Manage, and click the folder icon next to Installation to open the folder.
- Others: look for a “browse files” or “open install folder” option in the launcher.
Some launchers also need to run as administrator for the setting to take effect.
Microsoft Store and Xbox app games
Games installed through the Microsoft Store or the Xbox app usually can’t be run as administrator this way, and generally don’t need it. If one has problems, use Settings > Apps > Installed apps, click the three dots next to it, choose Advanced options, and try Repair.
Other compatibility settings worth trying
On the same Compatibility tab, older games may also benefit from Run this program in compatibility mode for an older Windows version, or Disable fullscreen optimizations. See how to run a program in compatibility mode.
Troubleshooting
The option is greyed out
You’re signed in with a standard account, or the file is a Store app. Ask an administrator to change the setting, or sign in with an admin account.
The game asks for permission every time
That’s expected. Windows shows the User Account Control prompt each time an app runs with administrator rights.
It made no difference
Undo the setting and try other fixes, such as updating graphics drivers or verifying the game files in the launcher.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to run games as administrator?
For legitimate games from trusted stores, generally yes. Don’t do it for cracked games or files from unknown sources.
How do I run other programs as administrator?
The same steps work for any desktop app. See how to run as administrator in Windows 11 and how to run Command Prompt as administrator.
Summary
Right-click the game and choose Run as administrator for one session, or tick Run this program as an administrator on the Compatibility tab of the game’s .exe to make it permanent. For Steam and other launchers, set it on the .exe in the install folder.
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.