WordPress utilizes a role-based system to manage user access and permissions. Different roles, such as Subscriber, Contributor, Author, Editor, and Administrator, grant varying levels of control over the website.
Understanding how make a subscriber an admin on WordPress is crucial for website owners and administrators. While Subscribers have limited access, elevating them to the Administrator role grants them full control over the website, including managing content, users, plugins, and themes.
This action is typically necessary when:
- Onboarding new team members: Granting administrative privileges to key team members allows them to effectively manage website tasks.
- Website ownership transfer: When transferring website ownership, granting administrative access to the new owner is essential.
Proper user role management is paramount for website security. By carefully assigning roles (how make a subscriber an admin on wordpress) and limiting administrative access to only necessary personnel, you can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access and malicious activities.
Steps to Make a Subscriber an Admin
Step 1: Log in to WordPress

- Go to your WordPress login page (e.g.,
yourwebsite.com/wp-admin
). - Enter your Username and Password for an account with administrative privileges.
- Click Log In.
Step 2: Access the Users Section

- From the WordPress dashboard, navigate to the Users menu on the left sidebar.
- Click on All Users to view a list of all registered users.
Step 3: Locate the Subscriber

- Scroll through the user list or use the Search Users bar to find the subscriber you want to make an admin.
- Once located, hover over the user’s name to reveal the Edit option and click it.
Step 4: Change the Role to Admin

- In the user edit screen, look for the Role dropdown menu.
- Select Administrator from the list of roles.
Step 5: Save Changes

- Scroll down and click the Update User button to save the changes.
Step 6: Confirm the Changes

- Return to the Users section.
- Ensure the user’s role is now listed as Administrator.
Now you know how make a subscriber an admin on wordpress by following above steps.
Important Notes
- Security Risks: Granting admin access gives the user full control over your site, including the ability to delete content, add/remove plugins, and manage other users. Make sure the user is trustworthy.
- Alternative Approach: If you want the user to have elevated permissions but not full admin access, consider assigning them a different role, such as Editor or Author, depending on their responsibilities.
Security Considerations

When you learn how make a subscriber an admin on WordPress, it’s crucial to prioritize website security. Elevating user privileges comes with increased responsibility:
- Password Security:
- Encourage all users, especially administrators, to create strong, unique passwords that are difficult to guess.
- Consider implementing password complexity requirements, such as a minimum length and the inclusion of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
- Enable 2FA for all administrator accounts.
- 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide a second form of verification, such as a code sent to their phone or email, in addition to their password.
- Regularly Review User Roles:
- Periodically review user roles to ensure they are still appropriate and that no unauthorized users have administrator access.
- Remove administrative privileges from users who no longer require them.
By implementing these security measures, you can significantly minimize the risks associated with granting administrative access and maintain the integrity of your WordPress website.
Conclusion
Successfully learning how make a subscriber an admin on WordPress requires a careful and deliberate approach. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can efficiently elevate user privileges while maintaining optimal website security.
Remember to prioritize password security, enable two-factor authentication, and regularly review user roles to mitigate potential risks.
For further assistance with WordPress user management (how make a subscriber an admin on wordpress) or any other WordPress-related challenges, feel free to contact Spiracle Themes. They specialize in custom WordPress development and can provide expert guidance and support tailored to your specific needs.
This conclusion effectively summarizes the key takeaways, emphasizes security best practices, and seamlessly integrates the call to action for Spiracle Themes.
1. Can I directly promote a subscriber to an admin without creating a new account?
Yes, you can. Simply edit the user’s role in the Users section of your WordPress dashboard and change it to Administrator. You don’t need to create a new account.
2. What should I do if I don’t see the ‘Administrator’ option in the dropdown?
If the Administrator role isn’t available, it could be due to:
- Your own account not having administrative privileges.
- A plugin restricting role changes. Check your permissions or deactivate conflicting plugins.
3. Is it safe to make a subscriber an admin?
Be cautious. Granting admin privileges gives the user full control over your site, including managing plugins, themes, and deleting content. Only make someone an admin if they’re trusted and need these permissions.
4. How does making a subscriber an admin affect Spiracle Themes?
If you’re using Spiracle Themes, promoting a subscriber to admin gives them full control over theme customizations, including advanced options like layout tweaks, color settings, and potentially overriding theme styles. Ensure they’re familiar with Spiracle’s design principles to avoid breaking your site’s look.
5. Can I revert an admin back to a subscriber?
Yes, you can downgrade any user’s role by editing their profile in the Users section. Simply change their role back to Subscriber and save the changes.