We often use File Explorer to browse and view our files. When we open it, File Explorer in Windows 11 by default operates with standard-level privileges, which are sufficient for regular tasks. However, to modify or access hidden file settings, we need to open File Explorer with administrative rights.
Running File Explorer as an administrator can provide you with the necessary permissions to do so. This article will guide you through the straightforward steps to open File Explorer with administrator rights, enabling you to manage files and settings that regular user accounts might not have access to. Let’s delve deeper and learn how to run File Explorer as an administrator in Windows 11.
How to Run File Explorer as an Administrator in Windows 11
Running File Explorer with administrator privileges enables you to perform special tasks on your computer. There are various methods to achieve this.
Here’s how you can open File Explorer as an admin in Windows 11:
1. Using the Start Menu
The foremost method of running File Explorer as an Administrator in Windows 11 involves using the Start Menu. This approach offers a convenient means of elevating your privileges and accessing the administrative features of File Explorer.
If you frequently encounter tasks that demand file modifications, settings management, or troubleshooting issues necessitating administrator-level permissions, this method can be a vital asset to your workflow.
Here are the steps you can follow to run File Explorer as an Administrator using the Start Menu:
1. Click on the Start Menu button located in the bottom-left corner of your screen.
2. Now, in the search bar, type explorer.exe and look for the Explorer command. Here, click on the Run as Administrator option.
3. Alternatively, right-click on it. This action will prompt a context menu to appear.
4. From this context menu, select Run as administrator to execute File Explorer with administrative privileges.
These are the straightforward steps you can follow. You are now ready to run your File Explorer as an administrator using the Start Menu.
2. Using Task Manager
Another way to launch File Explorer with administrator rights is by using the Task Manager. To open File Explorer as an admin using the Task Manager, follow these steps:
1. Right-click on the taskbar, which is the bar at the bottom of your screen, and then select Task Manager from the menu that appears. Alternatively, you can open Task Manager using the Ctrl + Shift + Esc keys.
2. The Task Manager window will appear. Here, click on the Run new task option.
3. In the Create New Task window that appears, type explorer in the box and tick the box that says Create this task with administrative privileges option.
4. Then click on the OK button to run File Explore as an Admin.
3. Using the Run Dialog Box
You can also use something called the Run dialog box to open File Explorer as an administrator. For that, follow these steps:
1. Press the keys Win + R at the same time. This will open the Run dialog box.
2. Type Explorer into the box, and instead of just pressing Enter, press Ctrl + Shift + Enter on your keyboard to launch File Explorer as an administrator.
3. You will receive a User Account Control prompt. Here, click on Yes to proceed.
This will open File Explorer with administrator privileges, a feat that cannot be achieved using the Run Dialog alone. You can also explore other methods to accomplish this.
4. Using PowerShell
Windows PowerShell is another tool you can utilize to run File Explorer as an administrator. It serves as a command-line interface; to use it, you need to execute specific commands.
Here is how you can run File Explorer with administrator privileges using PowerShell or the command prompt:
1. Right-click on the Start button, usually found at the bottom-left corner.
2. From the menu that appears, select the Terminal (Admin) option. Alternatively, you can also choose Command Prompt (Admin), which is also effective.
3. Once the PowerShell window opens, type the following command and press Enter.
C:\windows\explorer.exe /nouaccheck
5. Run as an Admin from File Explorer
You can also run File Explorer as an administrator from the Windows location. This folder contains all the regular applications and important system-related files. Therefore, it is a crucial directory for your system to function properly.
To run File Explorer as an admin, simply follow the steps mentioned below.
1. Open File Explorer using Win + E a keyboard shortcut.
2. Then, navigate to the following location on your C drive. Or, paste it in the File Explorer address bar.
C:\Windows
3. Now, locate Explorer in the list, right-click on it, and choose the Run as administrator option from the menu that appears.
Keep in mind that when you’re using administrator privileges, it’s similar to having a powerful tool at your disposal. However, exercise caution to avoid making unintended changes, particularly within crucial folders.
Conclusion
Whether you’re troubleshooting an issue or making advanced adjustments, understanding how to run File Explorer as an administrator in Windows 11 is a valuable skill. By following the methods mentioned above, you’ll be able to elevate your privileges and perform tasks that require higher system access, ensuring you can effectively manage your computer without unnecessary restrictions.
So, now you know the magical way to use File Explorer in Windows 11! Whether you’re clicking the Start button, going through the Task Manager, using the Run box, or even staying within File Explorer, remember to be extremely careful with your actions. We hope this guide helps you learn the steps to run File Explorer as an administrator on Windows 11.
