Privilege (computing)

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In computing, privilege is defined as the delegation of authority to perform security-relevant functions on a computer system.^[1] A privilege allows a user to perform an action with security consequences. Examples of various privileges include the ability to create a new user, install software, or change kernel functions.

Users who have been delegated extra levels of control are called privileged. Users who lack most privileges are defined as unprivileged, regular, or normal users.