what's the easiest way to change the computer as the administrator?

Question

I just found out that I am not suppose to use the computer as the administrator and I have been doing just that. So what's the easiest way to change how I use the computer? Can I set up a new administrator account and then take away my access as an administrator on the old account? OR... Do I need to just stop using the administrator account and set up a new one with all the bells and whisles my old account has? This would take some time so I really hope the first suggestion is fine.

So far Ed McMann is close to the answer I am looking for. I know how to change it I just wanted to know if I am at a lesser security risk if I using the first option rather than having to create a new profile all over again. I believe using the computer as an administrator leave you without a safety net if a virus comes thru your computer

Answer 1

You can add a new administrator account, and then make your current account a limited user (taking away admin privileges).

Answer 2

Is there a reason why you shouldn't be using the Adminstrators' account? You can't directly change the name of it or edit anything (but the password) -- The only thing you can do is to create a new user account. To do this, navigate to Start -> Control panel. From there, double-click the "Users" icon. From there you can add user accounts with (1) Limited access or (2) Adminisration access.

If you want to save data from the administration account (ex: my documents) you would have to have administrative priviliges, log into the administrator account, go to Start -> Run and type "CMD" -- From there, (if your boot disc is "C:") type "C:\Documents and Settings\\My Documents" (include the quotes). Drag and drop any/all files from the administrators "My Documents" to the new account's "My Documents."

Answer 3

Using the Administrator account isn't bad. You can mess up the computer on any account.

Answer 4

You have to go to Start. Then find Control Panel. From there click on User Accounts. You can then create a new account.

Answer 5

Is this your home computer or business computer? If it is your home computer and if it is yours then you can be the administrator. If it is a business computer, then your IT department should change it for you. Otherwise what is the point. If you change it, you will know the password

Answer 6

your first is the easyest way to solve the problem.

Answer 7

What? I use it as the admin... I've never had any problems.