Standard User vs Administrator Privileges (macOS)
In order to keep our campus computers secure against cybersecurity threats, users are provided standard-level user accounts. This allows users to access a majority of functions and features on their computers.
There may be certain, infrequent situations where a user cannot proceed without Administrator-level privileges on the computer. In these situations, the user should contact the IT Service desk at:
Depending upon the technical issue to be resolved, the Service Desk technician may assist you directly on the computer or via remote support:
If neither of these options are feasible, a third option is to temporarily grant administrator rights to the user.
Temporary Admin Privileges (macOS)
- To receive temporary administrator privileges, the IT Service Desk must first decide that the situation warrants such a step.
- You may contact the IT Service Desk using any of the methods listed above.
- If approval is granted, the user will choose a date convenient for them to receive temporary administrator privileges.
- On that date, the user will go to the Self Service app —> Security —> Make Me an Admin for 30 minutes.
- Click on Upgrade User.
5. A message will appear:
“You now have administrative rights for 30 minutes. DO NOT ABUSE THIS PRIVILEGE …”
Click on the button Make me an admin, please.
After several seconds, the user account will have upgraded administrator rights for up to 30 minutes. Please be aware that restarting the computer at any time will revert the user account back to standard level.
The user can verify that they have temporary administrator rights by going to the Settings app —> Users and Groups and checking the user type listed below the user account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the Self Service app?
The Self Service app is in the Applications folder. It can also be accessed via the Dock or the Launchpad.
My account returned back to a standard user before 30 minutes.
If the computer is restarted, the account will automatically return to standard level even if 30 minutes have not gone by.