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Overview
ABR is a just-in-time software tool that allows temporary admin rights to faculty and staff ECU-managed computers. ABR is allowed for users who routinely require admin rights for job duties, workflows or software that requires frequent or ongoing admin-level actions. Users request ABR through the Software Support Service Request and must provide a business justification before approval. ABR’s cloud-based management portal allows for secure application controls, malware blocks and full audit logging while improving user productivity with reduced IT workload.
| Appropriate Use Cases |
Inappropriate Use Cases* |
- Technical or analytical tools requiring frequent driver/plugin updates
- Development, scripting and automation work where admin access is regularly required
- Scientific or research software that updates hardware interfaces or components
- Department-specific applications needing frequent elevated updates outside IT maintenance cycles
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- Routine software updates handled by ITCS (e.g., Office, Chrome, Adobe, Teams)
- Initial workstation setup or onboarding configuration
- Installing general productivity software (e.g., Zoom, VLC, Notepad++)
- Printer setup, VPN installation or other IT managed tasks
- Any infrequent need that does not justify ongoing admin rights
*For these task types, contact ITCS or your department tech. ABR is not issued for workstation setup.
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Licenses are limited with quarterly audits. If a license is not used in 90 days, it is reclaimed. A new request is required.
ABR provides two options for elevating privileges. Run as Admin is used when you only need elevation for a single application or installer.
For support, features and other ABR information, visit the ABR Documentation Center.
Install ABR
Request ABR through the Software Support Service Request. Once the license is approved, the ABR tool appears in your computer's Company Portal.
Run ABR: Two Options
ABR provides two options for elevating privileges: Run as Admin and Admin Session.
Option 1: Run as Admin
Use this option when you only need elevation for a single application or installer.
- Right-click the app and choose, Run as administrator.
- Complete the User Account Control form. The reason is required; keep it simple. Example: Installing Oracle client.
- The Terms and Conditions dialog box opens. Click OK to confirm the software you are installing is approved by TAC or has completed a Technology Security Assessment (TSA). The application launches with elevated privileges. After admin work is complete, close the application to end elevated privileges. No other apps inherit admin rights.
Option 2: Start an Admin Session
Use this option when you have multiple tasks that require admin rights.
- Begin an admin session in one of two ways:
- Double-click the ABR desktop icon, or
- Click the green checkmark in the system tray.
- Complete the User Account Control form. The reason is required; keep it simple.
- The Terms and Conditions dialog box opens. Click OK to confirm the software you are installing is approved by TAC or has completed a Technology Security Assessment.
- Session timer appears. Your screen displays a countdown timer showing how long the admin session will remain active. Click Finish at any time to end the session early.
ABR Best Practices
- Use ABR for approved workflows only.
- Provide a clear justification for each request.
- Be sure to end your admin session when tasks are complete.
- Do not install unauthorized or unlicensed software.
- Report suspicious elevation prompts to ITCS immediately.