Software⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-11

How to Fix: How to Solve error: This app can't be activated by the Built-in Administrator in Windows 8

Windows error fix for built-in administrator account activation issue.

Quick Answer: Disable the Built-in Administrator account and create a new one, then try to activate the app again.

This error occurs when you try to activate an app using the built-in Administrator account in Windows 8.1, resulting in an error message that prevents the activation process. This issue affects users who have enabled the built-in Administrator account on their system and are trying to install or activate a new application.

We understand how frustrating this error can be, especially when you need to use a specific app for work or personal purposes. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to resolve this issue and get your apps up and running again.

💡 Why You Are Getting This Error

  • The first main reason why this error happens is due to the built-in Administrator account not being properly configured or set as the default account for app activation. When you enable the built-in Administrator account, it can sometimes conflict with the app's activation process, leading to this error.
  • Another possible cause of this issue is that the built-in Administrator account is not correctly linked to the user's profile or has incorrect permissions. This can also lead to the app being unable to activate.

✅ Best Solutions to Fix It

Resetting the built-in Administrator account

  1. Step 1: Step 1: Open the Control Panel and go to User Accounts. Click on Manage another account, then select the built-in Administrator account.
  2. Step 2: Step 2: Click on 'Change my account type' and then click on 'Change the account type'. Select 'Standard user' from the dropdown menu.
  3. Step 3: Step 3: Confirm that you want to change the account type by clicking on 'Change' again. This will reset the built-in Administrator account to its default settings.

Disabling and re-enabling the feature

  1. Step 1: Step 1: Go to the Windows Features section in the Control Panel and uncheck the box next to 'Windows Installer'.
  2. Step 2: Step 2: Restart your computer. This will disable the built-in Administrator account's ability to activate apps.
  3. Step 3: Step 3: After restarting, go back to the Windows Features section and re-check the box next to 'Windows Installer'.

💡 Conclusion

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and get your app activated. If you are still experiencing issues after trying both methods, we recommend reaching out to Microsoft support for further assistance or contacting a professional IT technician for personalized help.

Did this fix your problem?

If not, try searching for specific error codes.

🔍 Search Error Database

❓ Frequently Asked Questions