FAQ
TL;DR: Windows 7 hidden admin access uses 1 command and a desktop shortcut; “You cannot sign in to the account under another account.” [Elektroda, DriverMSG, post #16698288]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps Windows 7 users hide the built‑in Administrator from the logon screen yet quickly toggle it on/off when needed.
Quick Facts
- You can hide the Administrator from the logon panel and change how users log in. [Elektroda, DriverMSG, post #16698288]
- You cannot log into one account from inside another; you must switch users. [Elektroda, DriverMSG, post #16698288]
- Create a desktop shortcut: Right‑click desktop > New > Shortcut, enter the command, save. [Elektroda, DriverMSG, post #16699244]
- A BAT file can show a 5‑second status window using SET ShowAdminInfo=5. [Elektroda, DriverMSG, post #16707676]
- Standard users may see “Access is denied” when enabling a hidden admin without proper elevation. [Elektroda, Special525525, post #16700793]
How do I hide the built‑in Administrator from the Windows 7 logon screen?
Use the account‑hiding approach suggested in the thread: keep the Administrator disabled when not needed, then enable it only on demand via a shortcut. This prevents it from appearing on the logon panel during normal use and supports a quick toggle when required. “Just hide your account or change the login method.” [Elektroda, DriverMSG, post #16698288]
Can I sign into the hidden Administrator from my standard or regular admin session?
No. You cannot sign in to one account from within another account. You must switch users or log out, then log in as the target account. “You cannot sign in to the account under another account.” [Elektroda, DriverMSG, post #16698288]
What simple command enables the hidden Administrator?
Use a one‑liner in a shortcut or BAT file, for example: net user Administrator /active:yes. The thread centers on toggling the master admin with a single command executed via a shortcut or batch. [Elektroda, DriverMSG, post #16698288]
Why do I get “Access is denied” when I run the enable command from a standard account?
Because a standard account lacks rights to modify another account. Running the same command from a non‑elevated context results in denial, as the user reported when the shortcut did nothing and manual command failed. Elevate or use a method that requests credentials. [Elektroda, Special525525, post #16700793]
How do I create a desktop shortcut that runs the command automatically?
Right‑click the desktop > New > Shortcut. In the location field, paste the command to toggle the account, then finish the wizard. Use the shortcut to execute without retyping. This mirrors the guidance to place the command directly in the shortcut target. [Elektroda, DriverMSG, post #16699244]
How can I see what the batch is doing before the window closes?
Add SET ShowAdminInfo=5 at the top of your BAT file. This keeps the CMD console visible for 5 seconds, letting you confirm success or errors. It’s a practical way to surface status without extra tools. [Elektroda, DriverMSG, post #16707676]
Where should I store the BAT file for easy access?
Place the BAT in C:\Windows\System32 and create a desktop shortcut to it. This keeps it in the PATH and makes the shortcut simple. The thread’s example uses System32 placement for convenience. [Elektroda, DriverMSG, post #16707676]
What is gpedit.msc and why was it mentioned?
Gpedit.msc is the Local Group Policy Editor. It lets you adjust local security rules and user rights assignment, which can affect account behavior and elevation prompts. The thread advises reading about it to manage local rules. [Elektroda, DriverMSG, post #16698525]
How do I build a one‑click toggle for the hidden Administrator?
Three steps: 1. Create a BAT with the enable command and a 5‑second info line. 2. Save it, place it in System32. 3. Make a desktop shortcut to the BAT and run it with elevated rights. This gives a reliable 3‑step toggle. [Elektroda, DriverMSG, post #16707676]
Why doesn’t “Run as administrator” ask for a password on my standard account?
If UAC or policy is set not to prompt, or if the context isn’t elevating properly, the shortcut can open and close with no effect. The user observed no prompt and no change, indicating a non‑elevated execution path. Adjust policies or elevation method. [Elektroda, Special525525, post #16700793]
Is there a quick way to start CMD as admin to run the command manually?
Yes. Use CTRL+SHIFT+ENTER after typing cmd in Start. The user confirmed this launches an elevated console, though the command still failed without correct rights when the admin was hidden. Ensure proper credentials and context. [Elektroda, Special525525, post #16700793]
Can a batch elevate itself if it detects no admin rights?
Yes, the shared pattern checks rights, then re‑invokes elevated. Example logic begins with a rights test and then runs the requested net user command. This self‑elevation pattern underpins the provided BAT approach. [Elektroda, DriverMSG, post #16707676]
What failure mode should I expect if elevation is missing?
Expect the console to flash and exit or show “Access is denied.” Shortcuts without proper elevation do not change account status. That failure was reported when the hidden admin stayed inactive. Adjust UAC or run an elevated BAT. [Elektroda, Special525525, post #16700793]
Where can I see an example batch file to study?
The thread includes an example BAT attachment and notes to read its contents. Recreate the logic to test enabling/disabling the admin with visible status. Make multiple BATs to compare behavior. [Elektroda, DriverMSG, post #16707676]
What should I read if I want deeper control beyond shortcuts?
Review gpedit.msc topics on local rules and user rights assignment. The linked guidance points there for policy‑level control that influences elevation and admin access workflows. [Elektroda, DriverMSG, post #16698525]
