How to change user permissions in Windows 10

Last update: April 27th 2023
How to change user permissions in Windows 10

For many years, the Windows operating system has allowed for the creation of different users, so we share the hardware, but not the software. This is a brilliant idea that emerged to address all those family households with only one computer.

The problem arises when we want to see who has permissions and who doesn't, or even modify them. Therefore, in this article, we'll look at How to change user permissions in Windows 10.

What are administrator permissions in Windows 10?

In previous versions, and today in both Windows 10 and 11, it's possible to create several types of accounts, with the administrator account being the most important, as it will have special administrator privileges.

Through these permissions or privileges, the account can access all the functions and capabilities offered by the system, as well as make changes that affect other users.

Guest accounts, on the other hand, can only run applications, browse the web, and modify certain settings that affect their profile only.

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How to assign administrator permissions in Windows 10?

After learning what administrator permissions are and how they work in Windows 10, we must now explain how to change or modify them. The truth is that, as with any other task, Windows offers different ways to assign permissions:

Assign administrator permissions from Settings

  • Open the Settings menu.
  • Go into "Accounts«.
Assign administrator permissions from Settings
  • Now go to «Family and other users«.
Assign administrator permissions from Settings
  • Now you can convert any of the available accounts into "Administrator«.
  • Allows changes through "Account Options«.
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Assign administrator permissions through the Control Panel

The Control Panel is another very notable way to perform this action:

  • Access the Control Panel.
  • Now to the “User Accounts” section.
Assign administrator permissions through the Control Panel
  • "Manage another account."
Assign administrator permissions through the Control Panel
  • "Change account type".
Assign administrator permissions through the Control Panel
  • Select an available account to make it an “Administrator.”
Assign administrator permissions through the Control Panel
  • Approve the changes and that's it.

What types of accounts are there in Windows?

In Windows we can differentiate between three different accounts: Standard, Administrator and Guest accounts:

Standard account

This type of user can only make very specific changes to the system, such as changing icons or wallpapers. However, they cannot make any changes to the registry or install or uninstall specific applications. This is a common account for users who use their computers to write, watch videos, or play games.

Administrator Account

An Administrator account has all the privileges to make system changes, configuration changes, or modifications that other user accounts have. It's designed for making system changes, not for everyday use, as it can be more dangerous if infected.

Guest account

These are accounts designed for people who use a PC occasionally, without the need to change permissions.

Ultimately, changing the permissions of different Windows accounts is a process that can be carried out in several ways and is very effective if we want to make it clear who is in charge on our computer.