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Why Is the Sudo Command in Windows 11 So Helpful for Safe Admin Tasks?
Windows 11 now lets you use the “sudo” command, beginning with version 24H2. This means you can run programs or commands as an administrator (admin) all from a regular, non-admin Command Prompt, PowerShell, or Terminal. You don’t need to open a new admin window anymore.
What Is the Sudo Command?
- Lets you run admin commands, even if your command window is NOT run as administrator.
- Designed for jobs like starting/stopping services, changing system files, or installing things.
- Helps you avoid logging out or switching accounts just to do admin stuff.
How to Turn On Sudo
Sudo is off until you turn it on.
You have two easy ways:
Using Settings
- Go to Settings > System > For developers.
- Find the Enable sudo switch and turn it On.
- Choose how sudo works right below the switch (see “Modes” below).
Using the Registry (Advanced only)
- Open a Command Prompt as admin.
- Enter:
reg add "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Sudo" /v "Enabled" /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f
This will turn sudo on system-wide.
How Sudo Works
When you use sudo (like sudo net stop wuauserv), Windows pops up a security message (UAC) first.
If you click Yes, your command runs with admin rights.
A new elevated window may open, or the action happens right in your current window, based on your setup.
No password asked in the terminal (only the security prompt appears).
You cannot pick a different user for elevation—only the current user.
Sudo Command Modes
Choose a mode that meets your needs. All modes are simple to pick from Settings or with a short command.
Inline mode is handy if you want everything in one place, but it’s less secure than the other options.
Example: Fixing “Access is denied”
Suppose you try to stop a service from a normal Command Prompt:
net stop iphlpsvc
You get a System error 5 (Access is denied).
Now try:
sudo net stop iphlpsvc
You see a pop-up. Click Yes. The service stops.
Why Use Sudo on Windows 11?
- Saves time—no need to reopen as admin.
- Keeps you safe—runs only what you want, for a short time.
- Easy for people who know Linux—same logic, less hassle.
- More control—choose how your commands run.
Useful Tips
If you want to see all possible sudo options, run:
sudo -h
Pick the safest mode for your work.
Only enable sudo if you trust your device or are careful about security.
Feeling confident?
Try sudo today to do more, move faster, and stay protected on Windows 11—no headaches.