Administrator

Administrator means “administrator”. In IT, the administrator manages computers, servers and networks. Among other things, they set them up, maintain and update them, and detect and rectify system errors. To this end, an administrator has unlimited access rights to all systems on a computer or network. In the wrong hands, these extensive access rights become a security risk.

What does the term administrator mean in detail?

The so-called administrator account exists for the administrator on computers (and in networks and other systems). Unlimited access rights are usually assigned to this administrator account.

• This means that the computer “recognizes” anyone who logs into the administrator account as an administrator.
• This means that whoever has the access data for the administrator account can control the computer as desired.

In addition to the administrator accounts, there are also so-called user accounts.

• These are designed in such a way that they are easy to work with, but even an uninformed user cannot cause any major damage to the computer system.
• The access rights of these user accounts are therefore restricted. For example, no system files can be changed or deleted here.

Many malware programs require the access rights of an administrator. The restricted access rights of a user account also limit their potential damage.

Where do I encounter the topic of administrators in my day-to-day work?

If you are working in a user account:

If your administrator interrupts you while you are working on your computer to install a new program
If you have clicked on a directory and are told that you cannot access a certain file (e.g. because it is a system file).

If you are working in an administrator account:

If you want to install a new program and only need to enter your password.

What can I do to improve my safety?

• Only use the administrator account if and for as long as it is necessary.
• Do not use it to surf the Internet.
• Do not use it to retrieve or read e-mails.
• Assign a very strong password for the Aministrator account.
• If possible, secure the administrator account using two-factor authentication.
• Set up a user account that you use for all activities for which you do not directly require administrator rights.
• If several people access your computer, set up a separate user account for each person.
• There are even guest accounts whose access rights are even more restricted.

Further interesting information

• For those who want to delve further into the topic of administrators: a description of general security requirements for proper IT administration from the Alliance for Cyber Security.
• Example for Windows users: Microsoft’s instructions on how to create a user or administrator account in Windows 10.
• For Apple users: Instructions and information on “Setting up users, guests and groups for the Mac” in the macOS user manual.