Windows User Accounts: Admin vs Standard — What's the Difference?

Understanding Windows user account types helps keep your computers more secure. Here's what the difference means in practice. Two main account types in Windows: Administrator Account: - Can install and uninstall software - Can change system settings - Can install device drivers - Can create and manage other user accounts - Can make changes that affect all users on the computer Standard User Account: - Can use software and apps already installed - Can change personal settings (wallpaper, screensaver, etc.) - Cannot install new software - Cannot change system-wide settings - Cannot access other users' files - Gets a prompt asking for admin credentials when any admin action is needed (this is UAC) What is UAC (User Account Control)? UAC is the security feature that shows the "Do you want to allow this app to make changes?" prompt. When a standard user tries to do something that needs admin rights, Windows asks for an admin username and password. This prevents malware and accidents from making system-wide changes without your knowledge. Why you should use a Standard account for daily work: Even if you're the owner of the computer and need admin rights sometimes, running as a Standard user day-to-day significantly reduces your security risk. If you accidentally click a malicious link or download malware, it can only cause damage within your user account — it can't install itself system-wide because it would need your admin approval first. Our recommendation for businesses: - Create a local Administrator account (separate from your daily login) for IT use only - All daily work done under Standard user accounts - We can provide the admin credentials when software needs to be installed How to check your account type: Settings > Accounts > Your info — it shows "Administrator" or "Standard User" under your name. How to create a Standard user account: Settings > Accounts > Family & other users > Add someone else to this PC > follow the wizard > after creation, click the account > Change account type > Standard User. Note: On computers we manage, this setup is typically configured for you already.