Using default admin account vs standard user account


  1. Posts : 9
    Windows Professional 64-bit
       #1

    Using default admin account vs standard user account


    I have always been running admin and even until now I run as admin. But, I have been doing a little bit of research and realize that using a standard account is a safer practice. I have never even used a standard account. Is using a standard account a better practice? Also, how does doing average task such as installing programs and updating work through the standard user account?
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 552
    Windows 8 Pro x64
       #2

    Its safer to always run programs with lower privileges, and run as administrator when needed. Personally, I like my UAC set to the max. Basically, it stops programs from messing with your PC without permission.
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 6,292
    Windows 7 64 Bit Home Premium SP1
       #3

    If this is your computer and you are responsible for maintaining it then there is no good reason to set your user account to standard. You are the administrator, you need an administrator account.

    At least one user needs to be an administrator. Otherwise you would need to reboot into safe mode and log into the special administrators account in order to do any common maintenance tasks. A royal PIA.

    The standard account should be reserved for young children or less-than-trustworthy users of your computer, people you fear my make system changes "for fun", or who just can not help but click on that dancing monkey.

    Even then it is far better to teach and train them. They will need to behave as administrators themselves one day.
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 7,730
    Windows 7 Ultimate SP1 64-Bit
       #4

    I have a Standard account and an Administrator account.

    The Administrator account is used for major changes such as installing or deleting an application, while the Standard account is used for my day-to-day computer use.

    Switching between both accounts is no big deal and there are times when you need full administrator privileges.

    However, I can't disagree with TVeblen's comment if you are the only user.
      My Computer


  5. Posts : 6,292
    Windows 7 64 Bit Home Premium SP1
       #5

    That's a good way to do it Seavixen. No muss, no fuss, just go to Start and switch users.
      My Computer


 

  Related Discussions
Our Sites
Site Links
About Us
Windows 7 Forums is an independent web site and has not been authorized, sponsored, or otherwise approved by Microsoft Corporation. "Windows 7" and related materials are trademarks of Microsoft Corp.

© Designer Media Ltd
All times are GMT -5. The time now is 23:52.
Find Us