Recommended Free Tools
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Windows 11 does not consistently show a usable Run as administrator option when you search for Device Manager from Start. The most dependable approach is to open the Run dialog and submit devmgmt.msc with elevation, or launch the same command from an elevated Command Prompt, PowerShell, or Terminal window.
Use one of the methods below. Each creates Device Manager with an elevated security token rather than merely opening it under your normal account permissions.
Method 1: Run Device Manager as administrator with Run
This is usually the quickest method in Windows 11.
- Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog.
- Enter:
devmgmt.msc - Press Ctrl + Shift + Enter. Do not press only Enter.
- Select Yes when the User Account Control prompt appears.
Device Manager should now open elevated. The important detail is the keyboard shortcut: entering devmgmt.msc normally starts it with your current permissions, while Ctrl + Shift + Enter requests elevation.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallMethod 2: Use an elevated Command Prompt
- Open Start and type
cmd. - Right-click Command Prompt in the results.
- Select Run as administrator.
- Approve the UAC prompt.
- At the elevated command prompt, enter:
devmgmt.msc - Press Enter.
Because the command is started from an elevated Command Prompt, the Microsoft Management Console snap-in inherits the elevated process context.
#1 Best Overall
- Full Sized Keyboard: The US QWERTY keyboard features a tilt angle for the great typing position, which provides you with a comfortable and accurate typing experience, prevents wrist fatigue. Quiet clicks allow you to focus on your work or play without disturbing others
- Stable 2.4G Wireless Connection: Plug and play without any drivers. Advanced 2.4GHz wireless technology provides a powerful and reliable connection up to 33 ft with virtually no delays or dropouts, even in the busiest wireless environments. Note: The USB dongle is stored in the compartment next to the keyboard battery slot, and can be found by opening the keyboard battery cover
- Auto Sleep & Power Saving: The keyboard features automatic sleep function, when you stop using it for more than 15 minutes, it will go into sleep mode to save power and you can click any button to activate it, the battery life up to 6 months. The external keyboard is powered by 1 AAA battery (Batteries Not Included)
- Wide Compatibility: Easy to use, simply plug the USB receiver into the USB port and start working. This wireless keyboard compatible with Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP, Chrome OS, Linux and Mac OS. Works well with desktop, computer, PC, laptop, Chromebook, notebook and more. Perfect for office & home work, business travel. Enjoy your wireless freedom and keep your desk clean and tidy
- Multimedia Shortcuts: The full-sized cordless keyboard with numeric keypad features 12 multimedia hotkeys for instant access to your media player, E-mail, Internet, volume, play/pause, mute, computer and favorites, so you can easily check out your favorite sites. Ideal for office work and entertainment, it saves you time and makes work and life easier. Note: the 12 shortcuts are not fully compatible with the Mac system
Method 3: Use elevated PowerShell or Terminal
On current Windows 11 installations, the power-user menu may call the elevated console Terminal (Admin) rather than Windows PowerShell (administrator).
- Press Windows key + X.
- Select Terminal (Admin). If your system shows it, select Windows PowerShell (administrator) instead.
- Approve the UAC prompt.
- Run:
devmgmt.msc - Press Enter.
Do not assume that choosing Device Manager directly from the Windows key + X menu elevates it. In Windows 11, that shortcut normally opens Device Manager without deliberately creating an elevated process.
Method 4: Launch it from Task Manager
Task Manager provides an alternative when Start search or the Run dialog is not working properly.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Select Run new task from the Task Manager toolbar. On some layouts, you may need to open the File menu first and select Run new task.
- Enter:
devmgmt.msc - Enable Create this task with administrative privileges.
- Select OK.
- Approve the UAC prompt if Windows displays one.
Method 5: Start Device Manager with the full MMC path
If running devmgmt.msc appears to do nothing, start the snap-in explicitly through the Microsoft Management Console executable.
Rank #2
- All-day Comfort: This USB keyboard creates a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard full-size layout with all F-keys, number pad and arrow keys
- Built to Last: The spill-proof (2) design and durable print characters keep you on track for years to come despite any on-the-job mishaps; it’s a reliable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Long-lasting Battery Life: A 24-month battery life (4) means you can go for 2 years without the hassle of changing batteries of your wireless full-size keyboard
- Simply plug the USB receiver into a USB port on your desktop, laptop or netbook computer and start using the keyboard right away without any software installation
- Simply Wireless: Forget about drop-outs and delays thanks to a strong, reliable wireless connection with up to 33 ft range (5); K270 is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
- Open Command Prompt, PowerShell, or Terminal as administrator.
- Run this command:
C:WindowsSystem32mmc.exe C:WindowsSystem32devmgmt.msc - Press Enter.
This is primarily a diagnostic alternative. It can distinguish a problem with the ordinary file association or command invocation from a deeper issue with MMC, the Device Manager snap-in registration, Windows system files, or permissions. It does not repair those underlying problems.
Possible 32-bit redirection alternative
For a specific 32-bit redirection case, Microsoft community troubleshooting has also reported this alternative:
C:WindowsSysWOW64mmc.exe C:WindowsSysWOW64devmgmt.msc
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
This is not the normal Windows 11 command. Try the System32 command first.
Rank #3
- Reliable Plug and Play: The USB receiver provides a reliable wireless connection up to 33 ft (1), so you can forget about drop-outs and delays and you can take it wherever you use your computer
- Type in Comfort: The design of this keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the low-profile, quiet keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys, number pad, and arrow keys
- Durable and Resilient: This full-size wireless keyboard features a spill-resistant design (2), durable keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height
- Long Battery Life: MK270 combo features a 36-month keyboard and 12-month mouse battery life (3), along with on/off switches allowing you to go months without the hassle of changing batteries
- Easy to Use: This wireless keyboard and mouse combo features 8 multimedia hotkeys for instant access to the Internet, email, play/pause, and volume so you can easily check out your favorite sites
Method 6: Run it under a different administrator account
If your current account is not allowed to elevate, use credentials for an account that has administrator rights.
- Locate a Device Manager shortcut, or locate the relevant executable or shortcut you intend to launch.
- Hold Shift and right-click it.
- Select Run as different user.
- Enter the administrator account credentials in the Windows Security prompt.
Microsoft notes that some applications, MMC consoles, and Control Panel tools do not support being started as a different user in every situation. If this method fails, sign in to the administrator account or use an elevated console while logged into an account that can approve elevation.
Why Start search may not show “Run as administrator”
Searching for Device Manager in the Windows 11 Start menu may not consistently provide a working Run as administrator command. This does not mean Device Manager was removed or that your Windows edition lacks it. Device Manager remains the devmgmt.msc MMC snap-in.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Use one of these reliable elevation paths instead:
- Run: enter
devmgmt.mscand press Ctrl + Shift + Enter. - Command Prompt: open it with Run as administrator, then run
devmgmt.msc. - PowerShell or Terminal: open the console as administrator, then run the command.
- Task Manager: create the task with administrative privileges enabled.
How to tell whether Device Manager is elevated
Opening Device Manager successfully does not always prove that it is running as administrator. An account can belong to the Administrators group while an individual application still runs with a standard token until UAC elevation is approved.
Rank #4
- Media-Friendly: The K400 Plus wireless touch TV keyboard gives you integrated, comfortable control of your PC-to-TV entertainment, eliminating the clutter of a separate keyboard and mouse
- Plug-and-Play: Simply plug the Unifying receiver into a USB port and the wireless touchpad keyboard is ready to go; adjust controls using the Logitech Options Software to save preferred settings
- Power-Packed: Built with laid-back control in mind, this wireless TV keyboard has a reliable and long battery life of up to 18 months (2), including an on/off button to help it go even longer
- Wireless Freedom: Designed for seamless comfort and control, this HTPC keyboard boasts a range of up to 33 ft (1) wireless connectivity, with quiet keys and a large touchpad for easy navigation
- Broad Compatibility: Designed for use with Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10 and later, Android 7 or later, and Chrome OS
The safest test is procedural: start it using one of the elevated methods above and approve the UAC prompt. If Windows asks for administrator credentials, a standard user cannot elevate independently; an administrator account must provide those credentials.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to do if Device Manager still will not open
First, open an elevated Command Prompt and try:
devmgmt.msc
If that fails, try:
C:WindowsSystem32mmc.exe C:WindowsSystem32devmgmt.msc
If neither command launches the console, the problem may extend beyond permissions. Possible causes include a damaged MMC executable, broken snap-in registration, corrupted system files, or restrictive permissions. The full-path command is a useful diagnostic step, but it is not a repair command.
Do not enable the built-in Administrator account as a routine prerequisite. Commands such as net user administrator /active:yes change account availability and are troubleshooting measures, not normal requirements for running Device Manager as administrator.
Best Value
- 【Lag-free & Efficient】Stable and reliable connection of wireless keyboard and mouse is up to 10m(33ft). This combo share a nano USB receiver, no need to take up additional USB ports (Also the wireless keyboard and mouse can also be used separately). Plug and play, no software needed,convenient and efficient.
- 【Quiet & Type in Comfort】Wireless keyboard come with adjustable height tilt legs to increase comfort and prevent your wrists injury when typing for a long time.Our wireless keyboard adopts a silent structure. Soft membrane keys provide a quiet and comfortable typing experience.The wireless mouse is quiet without any clicking sound also.So whether at home or in the office, you can use this combo as you please without worrying about disturbing others.
- 【Full Size Keyboard】This keyboard saves desktop space while retaining its full size.The full size wireless keyboard with numeric keypad and 12 multimedia shortcut keys, such as play/ pause, volume increase and decrease, and search, to help you improve work efficiency.
- 【Auto Power Saving Function】Wireless keyboard and mouse have a smart auto-sleep mode to save power for long battery life. They will enter sleep mode after stop using a while(Refer to the instructions for details). Unplug the receiver or after the PC shutdown, they will enter sleep mode too.You can press any keys to wake. (battery life may vary based on user and computing conditions)
- 【Comfortable Optical Mouse】This silent wireless mice provides 3 adjustable DPI (800/1200/1600) to meet your different needs in terms of sensitivity.The compact lightweight design of wireless mouse and a hand-friendly contoured shape for all-day comfort, and smooth, precise tracking. Very suitable for office and daily use.
Which method should you use?
| Situation | Best method |
|---|---|
| You want the fastest option | Run dialog with Ctrl + Shift + Enter |
| Start search does not offer elevation | Elevated Command Prompt or Terminal |
| The Run dialog is unavailable | Task Manager with Create this task with administrative privileges |
devmgmt.msc appears to do nothing |
Full-path mmc.exe command |
| You must use another administrator’s credentials | Run as different user |
FAQ
What is the command to open Device Manager as administrator?
Use devmgmt.msc. To elevate it from Run, press Ctrl + Shift + Enter after entering the command. From Command Prompt, PowerShell, or Terminal, open the console as administrator first, then run the command.
Does typing devmgmt.msc automatically run Device Manager as administrator?
No. Plain devmgmt.msc does not perform elevation itself. Elevation must come from an elevated parent console, the Run dialog’s Ctrl + Shift + Enter shortcut, or Task Manager’s administrative-privileges option.
Why is Run as administrator missing for Device Manager in Windows 11?
Windows 11 Start search does not consistently expose a usable elevation command for Device Manager. Use the Run dialog with Ctrl + Shift + Enter, an elevated console, or Task Manager instead.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Can I open Device Manager from the Windows key + X menu as administrator?
Selecting Device Manager from the Windows key + X menu normally opens it without deliberately creating an elevated process in Windows 11. Use an elevated Command Prompt, PowerShell, Terminal, Run dialog, or Task Manager instead.
Do I need Windows 11 Pro to run Device Manager as administrator?
No. Device Manager is launched through the standard devmgmt.msc Microsoft Management Console snap-in. It is not limited to a special Windows 11 edition.
The Bottom Line
The most reliable Windows 11 procedure is: press Windows key + R, enter devmgmt.msc, press Ctrl + Shift + Enter, and approve UAC. If that does not work, launch the command from an elevated Command Prompt, PowerShell, or Terminal window. Use the full mmc.exe path only when the normal command fails to open Device Manager.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
