How do I unlock admin with no admin access


  1. Posts : 13
    Windows 7 Professional x64
       #1

    How do I unlock admin with no admin access


    So, here's what I did.
    Fresh install of Windows 7 x64 Pro.
    Default initial user is "Benjamin"
    created a second user, "Adam"
    created a third user, "root"

    Next security setup.
    I removed administrator privileges from Benjamin.
    Adam was created with no administrator privileges.
    root was given administrator privileges.

    Then I went into the local security policy to deny root from logging into the system locally.

    Well, I learned that yes, this prevents root from logging into his account as a desktop user, but I did not expect it to prevent me from temporarily escalating my privileges to administrator while logged in as Benjamin.

    I'm used to a Linux environment where it is normal that root can not log in but you can escalate. Is it possible to regain control of my system or do I need to reinstall?

    Thanks in advance,
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 1,426
    7 Pro
       #2

    WinInternals Locksmith or reinstall
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 540
    Windows 7 Ultimate 64bit
       #3

    Not sure if I'm reading this right but can't you just start in Safe Mode and log in as admin, because windows has a "hidden Admin Acct." or Safe Mode with command prompt and activate the "hidden Admin Acct." by using " net user administrator /active:yes " or

    If you have a Windows 7 installation DVD (not a recovery DVD) you can boot the system with it. Select the default language, then choose "Repair your computer". Then select "Command Prompt". At the command prompt type:

    net user administrator /active:yes [enter]

    Remove the DVD, reboot the computer, and log into the built-in Administrator account.
    Also check Here Built-in Administrator Account - Enable or Disable
    Last edited by Brink; 03 Oct 2011 at 11:40. Reason: removed quotes
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 13
    Windows 7 Professional x64
    Thread Starter
       #4

    Oh, I had not even thought about this method, either. I have used windows so infrequently since I moved to Linux primarily, i'm a little rusty with it.
    This seems like an easy idea. I'll try this. Though, I DO want to try the other method as well. I'll try all the LOGICAL *coughs*crimson*/coughs* suggestions a go and i'll post results back, maybe by this weekend.

    And a side note, Thank you crimson, this was a great read. I'm printing this thread and sharing it with my security classmates for discussion.
    Last edited by Brink; 03 Oct 2011 at 11:41. Reason: removed quotes
      My Computer


  5. Posts : 540
    Windows 7 Ultimate 64bit
       #5

    I see this thread is Marked "Solved" now! ... Did one of the above work for you? If so/not please reply back and post what did. Just in-case others might have the same issue.
      My Computer


  6. Posts : 24
    Windows 7 Ultimate x64
       #6

    Or you could try the Ultimate Booot CD for windows, it has a utility called NTPEdit that will change passwords
      My Computer


  7. Posts : 13
    Windows 7 Professional x64
    Thread Starter
       #7

    Oh hey, i see the thread was restored, thanks very much! The first method I tried to solve the issue was one suggestion that was removed from the original thread. I'll take that as a hint and just say this: just because I'm a dork (and I know how to unlock my system again easily now) I'll lock myself out again the way I did originally and try the other methods that are in this thread and post back with results :)
      My Computer


  8. Posts : 2,578
    Vista 64 bit and 32 bit (SP2)
       #8

    Glad you got your problem solved spezticle. By the way, we would all like to know how you got yourself back into your system --- I thought that was the whole purpose of restoring this thread --- to offer help to members with the same problem.
      My Computer


  9. Posts : 13
    Windows 7 Professional x64
    Thread Starter
       #9

    Imperfect1 said:
    Glad you got your problem solved spezticle. By the way, we would all like to know how you got yourself back into your system --- I thought that was the whole purpose of restoring this thread --- to offer help to members with the same problem.
    Of course, I've been a bit busy this week, it's been crazy busy.
    I used the Offline Windows Password & Registry Editor from the following link
    Offline Windows Password & Registry Editor
    and
    Reset lost Windows passwords with Offline Registry Editor | TechRepublic
    is a great walkthrough for this application. Read the warnings, it's important. It should be used with caution.

    I will try a few other methods to solve this same issue this weekend when I have more time to play around :)

    Thanks to Windows 7 Forums - View Profile: Borg 386 for the original suggestin :)
      My Computer


 

  Related Discussions
Our Sites
Site Links
About Us
Windows 7 Forums is an independent web site and has not been authorized, sponsored, or otherwise approved by Microsoft Corporation. "Windows 7" and related materials are trademarks of Microsoft Corp.

© Designer Media Ltd
All times are GMT -5. The time now is 17:59.
Find Us