How to Use gsudo-The Best ‘sudo’Alternative for Windows

How to Use gsudo: Bring ‘sudo’ to Your Windows Command Line

If you’re used to Linux or macOS, you’re probably familiar with the sudo command. It allows you to run tasks with elevated privileges in a secure, streamlined way. But did you know there’s a way to replicate that experience on Windows using a tool called gsudo?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what gsudo is, how to install it using Scoop, and how to use it effectively in your command-line workflows — even if you’re a beginner.

What Is gsudo?

gsudo is a lightweight open-source tool that lets you run commands with elevated (admin) privileges — just like sudo in Linux. It’s compatible with Command Prompt, PowerShell, and Windows Terminal.

Instead of right-clicking and choosing “Run as administrator,” you can simply prefix a command like this:

gsudo choco install 7zip

How to Install gsudo (Using Scoop)

The easiest way to install gsudo is via Scoop, a Windows command-line installer similar to Linux’s apt or Homebrew.

Step 1: Open PowerShell as administrator.
Type “PowerShell” in the Start Menu, right-click, and select “Run as administrator”.

Step 2: Install Scoop (if not already installed):

Set-ExecutionPolicy RemoteSigned -Scope CurrentUserirm get.scoop.sh | iex

Step 3: Install gsudo:

scoop install gsudo

How to Use gsudo: Examples

Here are some useful ways you can use gsudo:

• gsudo choco install googlechrome – install apps via Chocolatey with admin rights
• gsudo notepad C:\\Windows\\System32\\drivers\\etc\\hosts – edit protected files
• gsudo net stop wuauserv && gsudo net start wuauserv – restart Windows Update services

Bonus: Use gsudo cache for Fewer UAC Prompts

Want to avoid entering UAC permission for every command? Run this:

gsudo cache on

This keeps your elevated session alive temporarily, so you can run multiple admin commands without repeated prompts (until logout or timeout).

Who Should Use gsudo?

gsudo is great for:

• Developers and system admins who use the terminal often
• Power users who want faster admin access
• Anyone frustrated by Windows’ right-click “Run as administrator” routine

FAQ

Q : Is gsudo safe?
A : Yes — it’s open-source and widely used by developers. As with any admin-level tool, use caution when executing commands.

Q : Can I use gsudo with PowerShell 7?
A : Yes, but check the GitHub repo for known compatibility notes.

Make Your Setup Even Smoother

If you’re a command-line power user, pairing gsudo with responsive gear makes your workflow even smoother. A mechanical keyboard or high-precision mouse helps you fly through terminal tasks.

▶ See top-rated mechanical keyboards (US)
▶ Explore PC gadgets (Germany)

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Conclusion

gsudo brings a much-needed Linux-style “sudo” command to Windows. Once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to right-clicking “Run as administrator” again. Try it today and make your terminal experience truly efficient!

💡 Looking for more tips? Check out our full list of Windows Help Guides.

タグ: Windows Tips, PowerShell, gsudo, Scoop, sudo for Windows, Windows command line, developer tools, elevated commands