How to Run File Explorer as Admin on Windows 10 and Windows 11

Running File Explorer (aka Windows Explorer) as an administrator in Windows 10 and Windows 11 unlocks a world of possibilities, letting you effortlessly perform tasks that require elevated privileges. Here’s a straightforward and easy-to-follow guide on how to run File Explorer as admin so you can harness this powerful capability in both operating systems.

Run File Explorer on Windows 10

Opening a normal File Explorer window is simple. There are several ways to do it, including pressing Win+e and searching for Explorer in the Start menu. Here’s another method that opens File Explorer through Task Manager, but with a small twist. Follow these steps to restart Explorer and then open a fresh version:

1. Right-click the taskbar and select Task Manager, or press Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
2. Go to the Processes tab.
3. Right-click Windows Explorer from the list and choose End task.
4. Open the File menu and select Run new task.
5. Type explorer.exe in the text box.

Run File Explorer on Windows 11

This works very similarly on Windows 11:

1. Open Task Manager by right-clicking the taskbar and choosing Task Manager. Alternatively, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
2. From the Processes tab, right-click Windows Explorer and choose End task.
3. Select Run new task at the top of Task Manager.
4. Type explorer.exe in the text box.

Run File Explorer with Admin Rights

Here are some ways to run File Explorer as admin:

1. From Windows Folder

1. Navigate to C:\Windows in File Explorer.

2. Right-click explorer.exe and select Run as administrator. (Press e a few times to find it.)

3. Accept the UAC prompt.

2. Using Task Manager

1. Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc).

2. Choose Run new task (Windows 11) or File > Run New Task (Windows 10).

3. Type explorer.exe and check the Create this task with administrative privileges box.

4. Click OK.

3. Via Command Prompt

1. Open Command Prompt as admin (search for cmd, then select Run as administrator).

2. Type explorer.exe and press Enter.

3. A File Explorer window with admin rights will open.

Note: Running File Explorer with elevated privileges only affects the specific instance. Other instances running with normal privileges won’t be elevated.

Benefits of Running File Explorer as Administrator

Running File Explorer as admin can come in handy for certain tasks, especially when you’re dealing with system files or trying to tweak settings that require elevated privileges. Here are some of the biggest ways it’s useful:

• Access to Restricted Files and Folders: Normally, some system files and folders are off-limits to regular users. Once you know how to run File Explorer as admin, you can open, edit, or delete these files without hitting permission walls.
• Change Protected System Settings: Modifying or moving files in system folders (like Windows folders) can be restricted to avoid accidental damage. With admin rights, you can make the changes you need, whether you’re troubleshooting or customizing your system.
• File Ownership and Permissions: If you’re managing multiple users on your system, running File Explorer as administrator lets you take ownership of files or adjust permissions for different users. This can save you headaches when trying to organize or secure important data.
• Batch File Operations: Moving, copying, or deleting lots of files can sometimes trigger permission issues. An admin-level File Explorer avoids these interruptions so you can get the job done without needing to approve each action.

Important Notes

• Running File Explorer as an administrator allows you to access and modify system files and other protected areas of the OS. This should be done with caution to avoid unintended system changes.
• Some system tasks might require administrative privileges and running File Explorer as an administrator can facilitate these operations.
• It’s advisable to revert back to the non-administrative File Explorer for regular use to avoid accidental system modifications.
• If the above steps didn’t work for you, consider simply logging into a user account that already has admin rights.

Now you know how to run File Explorer as an administrator on both Windows 10 and Windows 11. Remember to exercise caution when working with elevated privileges.