Identify control-plane assets

Domain controllers, identity synchronisation, PKI, privileged groups and management systems can influence large parts of the estate. Treat compromise of those components as materially different from compromise of a standard user workstation.

Separate privileged identities

Administrators should not browse email or the web using accounts that can control identity infrastructure. Use dedicated privileged identities and restrict where those identities can authenticate.

Control administrative workstations

Privileged access workstations or hardened management paths reduce exposure to credential theft and untrusted software. Their value comes from enforced separation, not simply giving an administrator another laptop.

Remove standing privilege where possible

Review group membership, service accounts and delegated rights. Time-bound or approval-based privilege reduces the number of credentials that can permanently change critical systems and creates stronger evidence around administrative activity.

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