How to Allow Standard Users to Install Programs on Windows 11
In Windows 11, standard users are restricted from installing programs to ensure system stability and security. However, there may be instances where you need to allow standard users to install applications for personal or professional use. This article will guide you through the steps to enable standard users to install programs on Windows 11.
Step 1: Open the Settings App
To begin, press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app. Alternatively, you can search for “Settings” in the Start menu.
Step 2: Navigate to User Accounts
In the Settings app, click on “Accounts” from the left-hand menu. Then, select “Family & other users” from the options on the right.
Step 3: Add a Standard User
If you haven’t already added a standard user account, click on “Add someone else to this PC” and follow the on-screen instructions to create a new standard user account.
Step 4: Switch to the Standard User Account
Log in to the standard user account you just created. This will ensure that any changes you make will apply to this account.
Step 5: Enable User Account Control (UAC)
User Account Control (UAC) is a security feature that helps prevent unauthorized changes to your system. To enable UAC, follow these steps:
1. Open the Control Panel by pressing the Windows key + X and selecting “Control Panel.”
2. Click on “User Accounts” and then “Change User Account Control settings.”
3. Move the slider to the “Always notify” option and click “OK.”
Step 6: Modify Group Policy
To allow standard users to install programs, you need to modify the Group Policy settings. Follow these steps:
1. Press the Windows key + R, type “gpedit.msc” in the Run dialog, and press Enter to open the Group Policy Editor.
2. Navigate to “Computer Configuration” > “Windows Settings” > “Security Settings” > “Local Policies” > “User Rights Assignment.”
3. In the right pane, double-click on “Deny log on through Remote Desktop Services.”
4. Click on “Add User or Group,” enter the name of the standard user account, and click “OK.”
5. Repeat the process for “Deny log on locally” and “Deny log on through Terminal Services.”
Step 7: Install Programs as an Administrator
Now that you have modified the Group Policy settings, standard users can install programs. However, they must do so with administrative privileges. To install a program as an administrator, follow these steps:
1. Right-click on the program’s installer and select “Run as administrator.”
2. Enter the administrator password when prompted.
By following these steps, you can allow standard users to install programs on Windows 11 while maintaining system security. Remember to revert the Group Policy settings if you want to restrict standard users from installing programs in the future.
