Best practices

Log on as a normal user

• When you log on with administrative rights, you open the systems over which you have control to attack. For more information, see Why you should not run your computer as an administrator.
• Use the Runas command to open specific tools when you need to use them. For more information, see Runas.
• For tools that you use frequently, create shortcuts that use the Runas command.These shortcuts will help you work efficiently without compromising security. For more information, see To create a shortcut using the runas command.
• When you complete your task, close the tool. This will eliminate an opportunity for possible security breach of system or computer access by someone using your administrative credentials.

Follow the security guidelines for the tools that you use.

• Check the Help that accompanies each tool for security guidelines.

For more security information, see Best practices for security, Security overview, and Best practices for local security.