Resolving Microsoft Edge Inaccessibility for Built-in Administrator Accounts: A Comprehensive Guide

Resolving Microsoft Edge Inaccessibility for Built-in Administrator Accounts: A Comprehensive Guide

Microsoft Edge, the default browser for Windows 10, is an integral part of the operating system. However, certain security measures prevent users from accessing Microsoft Edge when signed in with the built-in administrator account. This article delves into the reasons behind this restriction and provides detailed instructions for resolving the issue.

Understanding the Restriction

The inability to open Microsoft Edge using the built-in administrator account is a deliberate security feature implemented by Microsoft. This restriction aims to safeguard the system from potential vulnerabilities and unauthorized access. By preventing the use of Edge with elevated privileges, the system minimizes the risk of malicious activities.

Resolving the Issue

To enable Microsoft Edge accessibility for the built-in administrator account, follow these steps:

For Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, and Education:

1. Open the Local Security Policy window by running “secpol.msc.”
2. Navigate to “Local Policies/Security Options.”
3. Locate the policy “User Account Control Admin Approval Mode for the Built-in Administrator account.”
4. Double-click on the policy to open its Properties box.
5. Set the policy to “Enabled.”
6. Click “Apply” and exit.

For Windows 10 Home:

1. Create a system restore point as a precautionary measure.
2. Open the Registry Editor by running “regedit.”
3. Navigate to the following registry key: “HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System.”
4. In the right pane, create a new DWORD value named “FilterAdministratorToken” and set its value to 0.
5. Navigate to the following key: “HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System\UIPI.”
6. Change the default REG_SZ string key from “Value not set” to “0x00000001(1).”
7. Exit the Registry Editor.

Additional Considerations:

1. Ensure that the User Account Control (UAC) setting is set to the third option from the bottom in the Control Panel.
2. Restart the computer to apply the changes.

Conclusion

By implementing the aforementioned steps, users can successfully resolve the issue of Microsoft Edge inaccessibility when using the built-in administrator account in Windows 10. This resolution allows for the secure use of Edge with elevated privileges while maintaining system integrity.

FAQ

Why is Microsoft Edge inaccessible when using the built-in administrator account?

Microsoft Edge is inaccessible when using the built-in administrator account due to a security feature that prevents applications from running with elevated privileges. This restriction aims to protect the system from potential vulnerabilities and unauthorized access.

How can I resolve the issue of Microsoft Edge inaccessibility for the built-in administrator account?

To resolve this issue, you can follow the steps outlined in the article, which involve modifying specific security settings and registry keys. The steps vary depending on whether you are using Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education, or Windows 10 Home.

Is it safe to modify the security settings and registry keys mentioned in the article?

Yes, it is generally safe to modify the security settings and registry keys mentioned in the article, provided that you follow the instructions carefully. However, it is always advisable to create a system restore point before making any changes to the registry, as this allows you to revert to a previous state if necessary.

What are the potential risks of modifying the security settings and registry keys?

Modifying the security settings and registry keys incorrectly can potentially lead to system instability or security vulnerabilities. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the instructions precisely and only make changes to the specific settings and keys mentioned in the article.

Are there any alternative methods to resolve the issue of Microsoft Edge inaccessibility?

There are no known alternative methods to resolve this issue other than modifying the security settings and registry keys as described in the article.

What should I do if I encounter problems after implementing the steps in the article?

If you encounter problems after implementing the steps in the article, you can try the following:

1. Verify that you have followed the instructions accurately.
2. Restart your computer to ensure that the changes have taken effect.
3. Create a new user account with administrator privileges and check if Microsoft Edge is accessible under that account.
4. If the issue persists, consider seeking assistance from a qualified IT professional.

Is it necessary to restart my computer after making the changes?

Yes, it is recommended to restart your computer after making the changes to ensure that they are applied correctly. Restarting the computer allows the system to load the modified settings and registry keys, ensuring that Microsoft Edge is accessible when using the built-in administrator account.