UAC (User Account Control) is an extra layer of security introduced in Windows Vista. It suspends any application you want to run: a dialog box pops up asking for an explicit permission to run the app. While offering extra security, UAC certainly complicates remote support because you lose control over the remote machine in some cases.
But let's see what other options we have here. All workarounds suggested are for Windows 7 but they also should work in Vista and Windows 8.
The most obvious solution is of course disabling UAC.
Open Control Panel -> System and Security -> Change User Account Control settings.
Or, run the following executable (use Start -> Run or command prompt):
C:\Windows\System32\UserAccountControlSettings.exe
Then move the slider to Never Notify. Click OK and enter administrator password if asked.
You can disable UAC by running the registry edit commands below. Alternatively, you can directly edit the corresponding registry subkey. Do not forget to reboot for the changes to take effect.
Disable UAC via registry
REG ADD "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System" /v EnableLUA /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f
Enable UAC via registry
REG ADD "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System" /v EnableLUA /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f
Obviously, you can make a script that will do this job when necessary.
Elevated Shortcut is an app that provides a workaround for skipping UAC prompts. It may require admin rights but once you have run it, you won't be bothered by a UAC screen in the applications of your choice.
1. Download the app to the target PC at http://winaero.com/request.php?38 Unzip it to an appropriate location, no installation is necessary.
2. Make an elevated shortcut for this app as follow (you may be requested admin permissions here). Start Elevated Shortcut and select New Shortcut. This will be the only time where a UAC confirmation is necessary. Proceed to create the elevated shortcut for Elevated Shortcut app.
3. Now you are all set. Once you need to run some application that needs elevated permissions:
- Start Elevated Shortcut with the new "UAC-free" shortcut.
- Create an elevated shortcut for the app your want to run. Then run it.
Sure, this workaround has certain drawbacks: there's a third-party app and you have to add a shortcut each time. However, it works.
Normally, remote access tools have special modes that again need admin password:
TeamViewer
In the Advanced options, enter the administrator password.
GoToAssist Corporate
Use Run as a Service feature, it requires administrator login.
DeskRoll
Unattended access mode
No specific actions are required - just work as normal.
Remote support mode
1. Use Start as Admin on the Tools menu.
2. Use Elevated Shortcut as explained above.