Windows 7: Lost administrator access via registry

Hey guys,



I set up a netbook for my mother with Windows 7 Professional x84. She's a complete beginner.

I altered the registry so that:

1. It hid my 'Chris' (admin) user account, leaving just her 'Mum' (restricted) account, and
2. it would automatically log in to Windows with her account.

Now I can't seem to find a way to regain Administrator privileges / log into my account. I've tried:

1. Changing the registry back - I can't as no admin privileges on her account.
2. Booting to Windows Repair - I can login as myself, then I've tried various options such as:
   1. System Restore - doesn't go far back enough.
   2. Using the Command Prompt to make changes (e.g. Registry Editor, net user administrator /active:yes) - however the changes only affect the temporary (X:\) Windows Repair, not the actual Windows 7 installation, even when changed directory to C:\.
3. Re-installation of Windows 7 via DVD (keeping files/settings as they are) - however to perform this it can't be run from boot, and you need to be logged in to an administrator account.
4. Safe Mode - No help, the same problems occur.

Other than formatting and reinstalling the OS, are there any other options you can think of to regain admin access?

Thanks,

Chris

Welcome to Windows Seven Forums.

It's a great pity you didn't backup the registry before you edited it.

Really, you didn't need to hide your admin account, just give it a password so that no-one else can use it.

I'm hoping that others will have fresh ideas, but other than a format and reinstall I can't see any other way out.

Indeed. I didn't realise I'd be so difficult to change it back. I'll know for future.

I hid it so it was easier for her to get started with Windows, didn't require clicking on her account that way. Regret doing that now though.

If you know which registry key you deleted/changed, we could perhaps e-mail the correct one to you.

I wouldn't be able to import them on a restricted user though.

You could enable the Administrator account through the Recovery Environment (RE) and change the registry that way. Built-in Administrator - Enable from WinRE

Post #5: True, never thought of that one.

It seems a format and re-install is the only way out. Did the computer come with a recovery disc?

On the other hand, writhziden's idea seems a good call.

It worked! Thank you

You're welcome. I am happy it worked.

Oh, forgot to mention: Make sure you disable the built-in administrator account when you are done getting things set up the way you want them.

Built-in Administrator Account - Enable or Disable

Already done