KI 2136 Who needs administrator access?

Too many user accounts with administrator access pose a major security risk for UiB, since these can be expolited by unauthorized persons. We must try to reduce that risk, while at the same time making it as easy as possible for everyone to carry out their tasks and install the programs they need in their work.

From September 2023, users must apply for an administrator account and the application must be approved by their manager. See Local administrator access on own PC (new scheme) for more information.

Reasons why a user needs administrator access can be:

To install or update software not found in the Microsoft Store or Software Center.
Note that very many programs are found in the Microsoft Store or Software Center. Administrator access is not required to install or update from these repositories. Please see KI 2088 How to install apps from the Microsoft Store and KI 2089 How to install software from the Software Center for more information.
- Always check first if the program is available on the Microsoft Store or Software Center, or if there are alternative or similar programs there that can be used instead.
Development or testing software. Some researchers e.g. create their own programs or are part of research groups that exchange and test scientific programs. This may require administrator access. Please contact the IT division to clarify such cases.
Installation in laboratories etc. There may be a need to install drivers for lab equipment, run special programs etc. Please contact the IT division to clarify such cases.
Some programs may require administrator privileges to run. This is often a sign that the software is outdated or may have other weaknesses or problems. Therefore, always contact the IT division to clarify such cases.