How to Run File Explorer as Administrator in Windows 11

When you run File Explorer on Windows 11, it begins with standard perquisites by default. However, you may seldom find yourself opening it with high privileges to do specific tasks with administrative authorities.

To open File Explorer with administrative rights using its .exe file, you’ll need first to run File Explorer manually.

The quickest way to launch File Explorer is by pressing the Windows+E on your keyboard or double-click on the File Explorer icon in the taskbar.

Is it disappeared from your taskbar? See how to pin File Explorer to the Windows 11 taskbar.

Next, navigate to the File Explorer’s EXE file in the “This PC > Windows (C:) > Windows” file path. Right-click the File Explorer and select “Run as Administrator” in the context menu.

Task Manager could be beneficial to help you run the File Explorer with administrative authorities.

To do so, all you need is to open Task Manager by using keyboard shortcuts Ctrl+Shift+Escape.

When it open, click “More Details” at the bottom of the Task Manager window.

Task Manager will open, presenting numerous data about currently-running apps.

Click the “File” tab on the top left side of the Task Manager window and click “Run New Task” in the drop-down menu that arrives.

Once you do so, the Create New Task window will be shown. Type “explorer.exe” in the given section right next to “Open,” and tick the box right next to “Create this task with administrative privileges,” and then click “OK.”

File Explorer will then start with admin privileges.

With File Explorer running with admin privileges, you can now explore whichever application or file you want to locate.

Be sure the file or folder you’re scanning for isn’t hidden, though.

Muhammad Imran Habib

Imran is a technology evangelist with 8 years of experience working with some of the Industry leading companies. Imran's expertise includes On-Prem/Virtual Infrastructure deployments, IT Solutions for SMEs, End User Computing Support.

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