How do I log on as "Administrator"? I have rec'd messages to update some programs get message "update requires Administrative Rights--log off then log on as Administrator" Have tried many ways - no luck. Checked my PC setup & note that I am listed as Adminstrator. How To wil be much appreciated.

Welcome to techhelpforum.

Are you using the "main" Administrator account, or another user name with admin privileges?

When you install XP, either version, you get a built in admin account named "Administrator". This account is partially hidden.

It is only accessible in Home Edition through a safe mode boot. In Pro it is hidden by default from the Welcome Screen.

The retail version of XP will hide the Administrator account as soon as you create another account. (When you create another user, the main admin user disappears from the welcome screen.)

To access the main administrator account log off all users and hit Ctrl+Alt+Delete twice on the welcome screen (as you would to bring up the Task Manager). This will give you a Windows 2000 style login box where you can select the main admin user.

Hi Dan, When I hit Ctrl+Alt+Del twice all that comes up is Task Manager. I can bring up my name as Administrator by hitting "users" on control panel. It displays my name & no other users. But I still don't know how to log on as Admistraror. What am I missing?:

I have merged your second post/thread into your first. There is no need to create a new thread for answers etc to an already existing topic/problem.

Did you

log off all users

I am the only user. I can bring up a screen that shows my name as "Administor" but I have not been able to log on as such.

1. What is the make and model number of the machine?
   
2. Is this a Laptop or a Desktop machine? (Sometimes it makes a difference.)
   
3. Did you get the machine with XP preinstalled from the factory, or did you (or someone else around you) install XP?
   
4. In either case, do you have XP media (CD)?
   
5. If so, is it a retail version (Full or Upgrade), or the manufacturers "Restore" media?

Can you log in as Administrator in Safe Mode?