How To Remove Local Administrator Rights From Windows 11 User Accounts

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How To Remove Local Administrator Rights From Windows 11 User Accounts. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

Removing local administrator rights from user accounts on Windows 11 is a critical security measure for community organisations. By changing users from Administrator accounts to Standard User accounts, you reduce the risk of accidental system changes and limit the impact of malware infections. This guide explains how to adjust these privileges and what to expect regarding operational impact.

Quick Fix Steps

1. Open the Start menu and select Settings.
2. Navigate to Accounts > Other users.
3. Select the user account you wish to modify.
4. Click Change account type.
5. Change the account type from Administrator to Standard User.
6. Click OK to save the changes.

Detailed Instructions

Changing Account Type via Settings

1. Click the Start button or press Windows Key on your keyboard.
2. Type Settings and press Enter, or click the Settings app icon.
3. In the left-hand sidebar, click Accounts.
4. On the right side, select Other users.
5. Under the Other users section, click on the name of the account you want to change.
6. Click the Change account type button.
7. A pop-up window will appear. In the Account type dropdown menu, select Standard User.
8. Click OK.

Operational Impact

Standard Users can run most applications and change personal settings, but they cannot install new software, modify system-wide settings, or change other user accounts without an administrator password. If staff members need to install specific tools for their roles, they will need to request assistance from an administrator or have the administrator perform the installation.

Troubleshooting

Account Not Listed

If the user account does not appear under Other users, they may be a Microsoft account user or a domain account. Ensure you are logged in as an administrator to view and modify all local accounts.

Unable to Change Account Type

If the Change account type button is greyed out, verify that you are currently signed in to an account with local administrator privileges. You cannot downgrade your own account type while logged into that same account.

Software Installation Failures

If a Standard User attempts to install software and receives a permission error, this is expected behaviour. An administrator must log in to authorise the installation or install the software on their behalf.

Still Having Issues?