least privilege

The least privilege principle is a core security concept that limits user and system access to only what is necessary for their role. On WindowsForum.com, discussions cover how Microsoft applies least privilege through User Account Control (UAC) in Windows 11, particularly the recent change requiring admin rights to view the Storage settings page. This update elevates the Storage pane behind a UAC prompt, hiding system-level cleanup items from standard users. The change impacts home users, IT administrators, and automated maintenance, reinforcing the least privilege model by restricting sensitive storage operations to authorized accounts. Threads also explore least privilege in Microsoft 365 administration, where identity and security roles control access to cloud resources, ensuring users have minimal permissions needed for their tasks.