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Local Administrator Access

Most computers that you log into on the SPH network will allow you to log in and use the computer. Most computers will not provide you with a level of access that allows you to install software or make significant changes to the configuration of the computer (aka "administrator access"). The main purpose of the restriction is to prevent virus and other malware (adware, spyware, etc.) from immediately getting full control of the system.

Since all computers on the SPH network are exposed to the internet, this type of protection is very important. It is also extremely effective.

Configuring your computer so that you are not normally using it with administrator access is probably more effective in preventing virus infection, adware, and spyware, than any anti-virus, anti-adware, or anti-spyware software.

If you need to have administrator access to your computer, we ask that the computer owner and department administrator read and fill out the form that is available online as a PDF.

Once the form has been submitted, a new account will be created on your computer that you will be able to use for installing software. You should not use this new account for day-to-day activities. You should *never* use an account with administrator access to read e-mail or use a web browser such as Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox.