When should system administrators use a standard user account?

System administrators should use a standard user account whenever possible to avoid risks associated with using Administrator accounts. Standard user accounts provide a limited scope of access, which helps minimize potential security threats, such as malware or unauthorized changes to the system. This practice is part of the principle of least privilege, which suggests that users should be granted only those permissions necessary to perform their intended tasks.

By using a standard user account, system administrators can help protect the operating system and sensitive data from accidental or intentional misuse. For instance, if malware runs under a standard user account, its ability to damage the system or access sensitive information is restricted compared to running under an Administrator account, which has full access.

Using standard user accounts for daily tasks while reserving Administrator privileges for specific operations enhances overall security posture. It is crucial for administrators to embrace this practice to maintain system integrity and reduce vulnerability to attacks.