The error message “Command Prompt.exe has been disabled by your administrator” Occurs when access to the command prompt is restricted. This may occur due to system policies, user account permissions, or third-party security software blocking access to the Command Prompt. This limitation typically prevents users from launching Command Prompt, displaying a message that access has been blocked.

Outdated Windows settings and corrupted system files can also contribute to this problem. In this guide, we will explore solutions ranging from basic to advanced, ensuring that you can restore access to Command Prompt and use Command Prompt without interruption.

NOTE: If you are using a work or office computer, Command Prompt may have been disabled by your system administrator for security reasons. Attempting to circumvent this could violate company policies, so make sure you have permission or check with your IT department first. However, if you have an administrator account and have all the necessary rights to make changes, you can safely follow the steps in this guide to restore access to Command Prompt.

1. Allow Command Prompt via Registry Editor

To begin, we will use the Registry Editor to restore access to the command prompt. The Windows Registry Editor, or regedit, is a crucial tool that allows you to manage your computer’s settings. Think of the registry as a comprehensive database where Windows stores vital information about your system, including hardware configurations, software settings, and user preferences.

Warning: Editing the Windows registry can be risky and cause system issues if not done correctly. It is recommended to backup the registry first. For a step-by-step guide on how to backup and restore the registry, check out our article: How to Backup and Restore the Registry

1. Press Windows + Rtype “regedit“, and press Enter.
2. Access:

   HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\System

   

3. Right click on “Windows”select New keyand name it “System” if it does not already exist.
4. Select the System key, then in the right panelright click and choose New > DWORD value (32 bits).
5. Name the new value “Disable CMD”.
6. Double click to this value and set its Value data has “0”.
7. Restart your PC to apply the changes.

2. Allow Access to Command Prompt via Group Policy Editor

THE Group Policy Editor is another useful tool in Windows that allows users to manage operating system and application settings. It allows you to set rules for security settings, software installations, and user permissions. If a policy set by a system administrator or a third-party application is blocking access to Command Prompt, this tool can help undo those changes, allowing Command Prompt to work properly.

Note: Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc) is only available in certain editions of Windows, such as Windows Pro, Enterprise, and Education.

1. Press Windows + Rtype “gpedit.msc”and press Enter.
2. Access: User Configuration > Administrative Templates > System.
3. Double click “Prevent access to the command prompt”.
4. Set it to Disabled or not configured.
5. Click ApplySO ALL RIGHT.
6. Restart your PC to apply the changes.

3. Create a new administrator account

Although the previous methods are likely to resolve the issue, creating a new administrator account can be an effective alternative. This solution is beneficial because it provides a new user environment that can bypass restrictions applied to your current account.

Note: If you are using a work computer or a system where account creation is restricted, you may need permission from your administrator; otherwise, you cannot create a separate user account.

1. Go to Settings > Accounts > Other users.
2. Click Add someone else to this PC.
3. Select I don’t have this person’s login information.
4. Add a user without a Microsoft account.
5. For “Who will use this PC? »enter any name. For added security, consider adding a password, then click Following.
6. Select the account and click the arrow.
7. Change the account type by clicking Account Option > Change Account Type.
8. Change the account type to Administrator.

4. Alternative Methods of Using Command Prompt

If you are unable to access the Command Prompt directly, alternative routes through PowerShell or Task Manager can enable execution of CMD commands. These methods enable efficient troubleshooting and resolution, even when CMD access is restricted.

Use the CMD command in PowerShell

Upon entering the cmd order in PowerShellyou can invoke the command prompt interface, allowing execution of CMD commands without direct access to CMD.

1. Click on the Windows search icontype PowerShellright-click and select Run as administrator.
2. Type cmd and press Enter to switch PowerShell to CMD mode.

Use the new task option in Task Manager

Create a new task in Task Manager with administrative privileges allows launching CMD even if the user’s permissions restrict it.

1. Press CTRL + ALT + DEL and select Task Manager.
2. Select Deposit > Run a new task.
3. Type cmd.exe and check “Create this task with administrative privileges”then press Enter.