how do i open devices and printers as administrator in windows 10? – everything you to need know

Windows 10 offers multiple levels of control for the user to ensure software security. This guide will show you how to access ‘Devices and Printers,’ in Windows 10 as an administrator. You can then take full control of your peripherals and hardware.

Understanding Administrator privileges in Windows 10

What are administrator privileges?

The administrator privileges give the user complete control over his or her operating system. You can access and change all files, as well as install and remove any software. These privileges are reserved for key personnel or IT staff in a corporate environment or multi-user system to prevent accidental changes.

Why do I need administrator privileges to access devices and printers?

To ensure that changes made are done with the full knowledge of their implications, certain actions, such as installing new devices, changing a device’s properties or uninstalling them, require administrator access.

Accessing devices and printers in Windows 10

Standard Procedure

You can access the Devices and Printers panel under normal circumstances by following these steps.

1. Press the Windows key or click on the Start button.
2. Enter “Control Panel” in the search box and then press ‘Enter.
3. Select ‘Hardware’ and ‘Sound’ in the Control Panel window.
4. Click on the “View Devices and Printers” link under ‘Devices and Printers.

Opening Devices and Printers As an Administrator

The Administrator’s Procedure

Follow these steps to open “Devices & Printers” as an administrator:

1. Press the Windows key or click the Start button.
2. Search for “Command Prompt”.
3. Click on the command prompt in the search results. Select ‘Run As Administrator’.
4. Type control Printers in the window that appears. Press ‘Enter.

This command opens the Devices and Printers panel with administrator rights. You can now modify your printers and devices as you wish.

Verifying Administrator access

Try performing an action which normally requires administrator rights to confirm you have successfully opened “Devices and Printers”. Try removing a device, or adjusting the properties of a printer. You have access to ‘Devices and Printers,’ if you are able to perform these actions as an administrator without being asked for a password.

Conclusion

Understanding how to manage Windows 10 as an administrator can be a powerful tool for managing your peripherals and devices more efficiently. With this power, comes greater responsibility for the stability and security your system. As an administrator, you should always be careful when making any changes. These changes can have a significant impact on your operating system.