How to Run CMD as Administrator in Windows 10 and 11: A Guide for Beginners and Seniors

How to Run CMD as Administrator in Windows 10 and 11: A Guide for Beginners and Seniors

Are you a beginner or a senior citizen looking to navigate the complexities of your Windows 10 or 11 system? This comprehensive guide teaches you how to run Command Prompt (CMD) as an administrator, providing the essential tools you need for effective computer management. From elevating your permissions to troubleshooting common issues, this article offers step-by-step instructions in simple, easy-to-understand language. You’ll discover multiple methods to access CMD with administrative rights, utilize keyboard shortcuts, and troubleshoot any problems you might encounter. Learn to execute powerful commands that can help repair your system, manage network settings, and optimize your PC's performance. Empower yourself with the knowledge and confidence to master this fundamental Windows tool. With practical tips aimed specifically at seniors and beginners, this guide is your go-to resource for getting the most out of your computer.



One of the essential tools available in Windows operating systems is the CMD also popularly known as Command Prompt (CMD). So, if you are someone who was stuck on how to run cmd as an administrator in Windows 10 and 11 then here is a guide for you. Don't worry if you are senior, novice to computers, i had tried to explain as simple as that!

Table of Contents

  1. Understanding Command Prompt

    • What is Command Prompt?
    • Importance of Running CMD as Administrator
  2. Why You Need Administrative Access

    • Enhanced Permissions
    • Use Cases for CMD as Administrator
  3. How to Open Command Prompt as Administrator in Windows 10

    • Method 1: Using the Search Bar
    • Method 2: Using the Start Menu
    • Method 3: Utilizing the Run Dialog
  4. How to Open Command Prompt as Administrator in Windows 11

    • Method 1: Using the Search Function
    • Method 2: From the Start Menu
    • Method 3: Windows Terminal
  5. Keyboard Shortcuts

    • Using Hotkeys to Open CMD as Administrator
  6. Troubleshooting Common Problems

    • CMD Not Opening as Administrator
    • Permissions Issues
  7. Conclusion

    • Summary of Steps
    • Encouragement to Explore CMD
  8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    • What if I don’t see CMD in the Search?
    • Can I use CMD without Administrator Rights?
    • What are some common CMD commands?

Understanding Command Prompt

What is Command Prompt?

Command Prompt (CMD) is a command line interpreter in Windows. It allows users to execute commands that can automate tasks, troubleshoot issues, and access advanced options.

Importance of Running CMD as Administrator

Running CMD as an administrator grants the user elevated permissions, which is often necessary for certain tasks like modifying system files or performing administrative tasks.

Why You Need Administrative Access

Enhanced Permissions

When CMD runs as an administrator, it has access to all system files, allowing you to perform tasks that are otherwise restricted.

To Change Your Account to Admin,[Check this ]


Use Cases for CMD as Administrator

Some common tasks that require administrative access include:

  • System File Checker: To repair corrupted system files.
  • Network Configuration: To reset network settings.
  • Managing Windows Services: To start or stop services manually.

How to Open Command Prompt as Administrator in Windows 10

Method 1: Using the Search Bar

  1. Click on the Search Bar or Start Menu.
  2. Type cmd or Command Prompt.
  3. Right-click on the Command Prompt icon and select Run as administrator.

Method 2: Using the Start Menu

  1. Open the Start Menu.
  2. Scroll down to Windows System.
  3. Right-click on Command Prompt and choose More > Run as administrator.
run cmd as administrator in windows 10

Method 3: Utilizing the Run Dialog

  1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type cmd and press Ctrl + Shift + Enter.
  3. Click Yes on the User Account Control prompt.

How to Open Command Prompt as Administrator in Windows 11

Method 1: Using the Search Function

  1. Click on the Search Icon on the taskbar.
  2. Type cmd or Command Prompt.
  3. Right-click on it and select Run as administrator.

Method 2: From the Start Menu

  1. Click on the Start Menu.
  2. Navigate to All Apps.
  3. Find Windows Tools and select Command Prompt, then choose Run as administrator.

Method 3: Windows Terminal

  1. Right-click on the Start Menu icon.
  2. Select Windows Terminal (Admin).
  3. From there, you can type cmd to access the Command Prompt.

Keyboard Shortcuts

Using keyboard shortcuts can simplify the process:

  • Windows Key + R: Opens the Run dialog.
  • Ctrl + Shift + Enter: Opens CMD as an administrator from the Run dialog.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

CMD Not Opening as Administrator

If CMD doesn’t open with administrative privileges, ensure your user account has administrative rights. You can check this by going to Settings > Accounts > Your Info.

Permissions Issues

Sometimes, issues may arise with User Account Control (UAC) settings. Review your UAC settings in the Control Panel to ensure proper permissions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What if I don’t see CMD in the Search?
You can use the Run dialog or access it via the Start Menu as mentioned in the methods above.

Q2: Can I use CMD without Administrator Rights?
Yes, but many advanced commands and features will be inaccessible.

Q3: What are some common CMD commands?
Some common commands include ipconfig, ping, and sfc /scannow.


Now that you have learned how to run CMD as an administrator in Windows 10 and 11, you can explore the power of command-line tools. Don’t hesitate to experiment, as you learn only by doing! and there is nothing wrong in do it!


If you got more time, then you can