Windows XP Pro has a limited variety of user privileges available to choose from, and at times the default choice of ‘Administrator’ or ‘Limited’ user privileges falls far short of the situation. But whether you know this or not, there are a few more privilege levels hidden away from view; such as ‘Power Users,’ ‘Backup Operators’ and ‘Network Configuration Operators’ to name just a few. To enable these privileges types is a bit trickier, but here’s the low down on how to access all the different accounts available to Windows XP.

First right click on the "My Computer" icon and go to "Manage". The "Computer Management" window will open and follow this path Local Users and Groups -> Users. In the right hand window, right click and select "New User…" Enter the user name and description to remind you of this account’s powers then press the "Create" button, then "Close". Right click on the new account and go to "Properties" then click the "Member Of" tab and the "Add…" button. From here click "Advanced…" and then the "Find Now" button and a list of all different user levels will appear. Select the one you want this account to have, then press the "Ok" button three times. Now that newly created account will have intermediate powers between a full Administrator and the base limited option.

This tip is useful for those times when you want to give someone more capabilities without requiring the administrator to baby-sit everything. For instance ‘Network Configuration Operators’ can adjust the networking properties like assigning IP addresses, configuring the DNS, etc., yet they do not have the ability to install programs (think Spyware). Power Users can install and run non-essential OS affecting programs, but cannot delete or modify someone else’s account or data without permission. Assigning Privileges are also a great way stopping kids from messing up the family computer too.

This tip is applicable for Windows 2000, 2003, Vista & 7.