How can I run a Task Scheduler job without being on administrator account?
I have read that the Windows account logged onto the computer that is running tasks from the Windows Task Scheduler needs to have administrator rights. I used the administrator account to create the task, but the problem is I cannot leave the computer with the admin account logged on. I have to switch to the non-admin account, but I want that task to still be run based on the criteria I have set up within Task Scheduler.
Is there any way where I can setup a task in Task Scheduler and have it run on an account that doesn't have administrator rights?
PS: The task is a very simple one. Moving files from one place to another, that's all.
Solution 1:
There is no way to create a scheduled task without admin rights, or this would be a serious security bug in Windows.
The Task Scheduler can only be used by an administrator, so you should look for some other solution for a standard user, by using a third-party product.
Here is a list of scheduling products that do not use the Task Scheduler, in no particular order. Some are pretty basic and some are more complex. I haven't used them, so cannot recommend one in particular.
- Z-Cron Scheduler
- System Scheduler Free
- Task Till Dawn
- RoboIntern
- Solway’s Task Scheduler
- Kana Reminder
Solution 2:
@xenon if you have admin access, created a scheduled task, & only works while admin is logged in sounds like the task and/or script needs to be fixed. Ideas:
- Check that task is setup to run when admin user logged out:
- Does the task/script require some kind of interaction, if so remove or automate it
- If task doesn't require admin access follow steps below to put in non-admin user startup
- Worst method: if task requires admin & you can't automate it for some reason (requires user interaction): create shortcut of batch script, modify shortcut to open as admin (will prompt for password every time its opened), place shortcut in non-admin user startup location seen below
@turmuka run automated task for non-admin user: don't use Task Scheduler, write batch script, put in user startup so it runs automatically.
- Write a batch script (.BAT or .CMD)
- Test it
- Put in User Startup: run,
shell:startup, paste batch script or shortcut to batch script here
C:\Users\InsertUsernameHere\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup