Keep Administrative Power Separate from Everyday Work

An ordinary work account should not carry broad administrative authority simply because that is the easiest way to install software. The organization needs an operating route for elevated tasks that does not turn every browser session or email attachment into an administrative session.

Establish who needs which authority

Identify the systems administered, the work performed, and the person approving it. Use individually assigned administrative identities where supported, separate from routine work. Limit the role and scope to the task; a help-desk function does not necessarily need tenant-wide control.

Microsoft’s Entra role guidance describes least privilege in terms of permissions, scope, and duration. Apply the principle using the capabilities and licensing of the actual system, rather than assuming every environment has the same privilege-management features.

Give staff a workable alternative

Document how approved software, updates, and administrative changes are requested. Pilot the removal of standing local administrator rights and identify application issues before a wider rollout. An application that unexpectedly requires elevation needs investigation, a supported adjustment, or a recorded exception.

Review vendor access, automated service identities, and emergency accounts separately. Each needs an owner and a defined use. Where a shared emergency account is unavoidable or specifically required by the platform design, restrict and monitor its use, with accountable retrieval and follow-up.

Keep credential records, endpoint management, and security operations aligned with the approved administrative roles. Retain enough activity information to investigate changes, and test the approved route before staff depend on it. Removing administrator rights reduces exposure, but it does not eliminate malware or the need for support. Check that essential work remains possible through the controlled route.