How to Enable the Hidden Administrator Account in Windows 11

Even if your Windows 11 user account says “Administrator,” you do not actually have unrestricted access to the operating system. User Account Control (UAC) still monitors your actions and blocks you from modifying certain system files. For extreme troubleshooting scenarios, Windows 11 contains a hidden, built-in “Super Administrator” account that bypasses all UAC prompts and has absolute control over the entire system.

Warning: This account poses a massive security risk if left enabled. Only activate it temporarily for specific troubleshooting tasks, and disable it immediately afterwards.

How to Enable the Account

You must use the Command Prompt to unhide this account.

1. Click the Start Button, type cmd in the search bar.
2. Right-click on the Command Prompt app and select Run as administrator.
3. Click Yes on the UAC prompt.
4. In the black terminal window, type the following exact command:
   net user administrator /active:yes
5. Press Enter. The terminal should reply with “The command completed successfully.”

How to Access the Account

Now that the account is active, you need to switch to it.

1. Click the Start Button.
2. Click on your profile picture (or username) in the bottom-left corner of the Start menu.
3. You will now see a new account named Administrator in the list. Click on it.
4. Windows will log you out of your current session and load a brand new, unrestricted desktop environment.

How to Disable the Account

Once you have finished fixing your computer, you must disable the account to keep your system secure against malware.

1. While logged into your normal account, open the Command Prompt as an administrator again.
2. Type the following command:
   net user administrator /active:no
3. Press Enter. The super administrator account is now safely hidden and disabled once again.