What Are Windows Administrative Tools and How to Use Them

Windows Administrative Tools are programs and utilities built into the Windows operating system to help administrators manage and troubleshoot their Windows-based computers. These tools provide a wide range of functions and capabilities, from monitoring system performance to configuring system settings, and are essential for anyone who needs to manage multiple computers or networks.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most commonly used Windows Administrative Tools in Windows 10 and 11 and provide an overview of their key features and functions and tips on how to use them effectively.

Whether you’re a seasoned IT professional or just starting with Windows administration, this article will help you get the most out of the built-in tools Windows offers.

Benefits of Using Windows Administrative Tools

• Built-in and Free: One of the most significant advantages of using Windows Administrative Tools is that they are built into the operating system and are available for free. This means you don’t need to purchase or install additional software to use them, making them a cost-effective solution for managing your Windows-based computers.
• User-Friendly Interface: Windows Administrative Tools are designed to be user-friendly and intuitive, with easy-to-understand menus and options. This makes them accessible to users with a wide range of technical abilities, including beginners and non-technical users.
• Comprehensive Functionality: Windows Administrative Tools offer many functions and capabilities, including system monitoring, performance tuning, disk management, security settings, and more. This makes them a versatile tool for managing and troubleshooting your Windows-based computers.

Administrative Tools Windows 11

The Windows Administrative Tools folder is designed for advanced users, including developers and system administrators. It includes approximately 38 tools stored in the folder C:\Windows\System32\ and its subfolders. Below is a list of some of the most commonly used tools.

• Windows Terminal
• Character Map
• Command Prompt
• Component Services
• Computer Management
• Control Panel
• Defragment and Optimize Drives
• Disk Cleanup
• Event Viewer
• iSCSI Initiator
• Local Security Policy

Tools like the resource monitor listed below are valuable in identifying and addressing Windows 11 issues. While they may not always provide a solution, they can offer guidance in the right direction.

• ODBC Data Sources
• Performance Monitor
• Power Automate
• Print Management
• Quick Assist
• Recovery Drive
• Registry Editor
• Remote Desktop Connection
• Resource Monitor

Several of the Windows Tools in this category are widely recognized as essential. This is because they are among Windows’s most frequently used administrative tools, including Task Manager, Run, and others.

• Run
• Services
• Steps Recorder
• System Configuration
• System Information
• Task Manager
• Task Scheduler
• Windows Firewall with Advanced Security
• Windows Fax and Scan
• Windows Media Player
• Windows Memory Diagnostic
• Windows PowerShell
• Windows PowerShell ISE

When Can I Use Windows Tools?

Use Windows Administrative Tools when managing and maintaining your Windows operating system. These tools can help manage disks, monitor system performance, control user accounts, diagnose and fix problems, and more.

For example, if you want to check the performance of your computer, you can use the Performance Monitor tool, which provides a detailed view of how your computer is running. If you need to manage user accounts, you can use the Local Users and Groups tool, which allows you to create, modify, and delete user accounts on your computer.

Windows Administrative Tools are designed to make it easier for you to manage and maintain your system. If you encounter any issues with your Windows operating system, these tools can help you diagnose and fix the problem.

How to Open Windows Tools Using the Search Option on Windows 11

To access Windows Tools through the Search feature in Windows 11, follow these quick steps:

1. Click on the search icon located on the taskbar or use the keyboard shortcut Windows Key + S to open Windows Search on your device.
2. Type “Windows Tools” into the search box.
3. Click on the “Open” option to launch the tools.

Open Windows Tools From Control Panel

To access Windows Tools through the Control Panel in Windows 11, follow these steps:

1. Open the Control Panel on your Windows 11 device and ensure you view the control panel in either the Small or Large Icons view.
2. Scroll down to the bottom of the page, where you can find the Windows Tools option. Click on it to open the tools.

Note that this method is still available in Windows 11, despite the introduction of the Search feature.

After being redirected to the folder, you will find a selection of available tools that can assist IT administrators in streamlining their work.

How to Access the Control Panel Thru the Run Dialog

To access these tools via Control Panel thru the Run Dialog, follow the steps below:

1. Launch the Run dialog by pressing Windows + R.

2. Type in “control” and hit Enter. Alternatively, you can use the Windows Search feature to locate Control Panel.

3. In the Control Panel, click the dropdown menu in the top right corner and select Large icons.

4. Click on Windows Tools at the bottom of the page.

Open Windows Tools From File Explorer

To access Windows Tools using File Explorer, follow these steps:

1. Open File Explorer on your Windows 11 device, or use the keyboard shortcut Windows + E to open it directly.
2. Click on the address bar of File Explorer, then type or copy and paste the following path into the address bar: %ProgramData%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Windows Tools. Press Enter.

Following these steps will redirect you to the folder containing the Windows Tools or Administrative Tools shortcuts lists.

It is important to note that File Explorer is essential for navigating Windows 11 and accessing various features, including Windows Tools.

Using Windows Run

1. Open the Windows Run Dialog by pressing the ⊞ + R keys on your keyboard.
2. Type the following command into the Run Dialog’s open text field: %ProgramData%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Windows Tools.
3. Press Enter to launch Windows Admin Tools.

Please note that the “control admin tools” command that worked for previous versions of Windows may not work in Windows 11. However, the address to the start menu shortcut folder can still open the Windows Admin Tools.

Using the Start Menu

To access Windows Administrative Tools in Windows 10, you can follow these steps:

1. Open the Start Menu (press the Windows key).
2. Scroll down to find Windows Administrative Tools and click on it.
3. Alternatively, you can use the search feature in the Start Menu to quickly find Windows Administrative Tools by typing its name.

You can also use a similar approach in Windows 11 by searching for Tools or Windows Tools in the Start Menu search bar. Clicking on the displayed shortcut will open the Windows Tools folder in the Control Panel.

Mastering Windows Administrative Tools: A Guide for All Users

Windows Administrative Tools, or Windows Tools, is a valuable resource for individuals seeking to manage and maintain their Windows systems. By utilizing these tools, users can ensure that their system operates smoothly and address any issues promptly.