Setting up user access to a local area computer network involves several steps, including creating, validating, and deleting user accounts. Below is a structured approach to accomplish these tasks. Additionally, I'll outline the access documentation you'll need to create in line with the user accounts.
Step 1: Create User Accounts
Method
Depending on the operating system you are using, the steps to create user accounts may vary. Below is a general guide for creating user accounts in a Windows environment.
Instructions
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Open Computer Management:
- Right-click on "This PC" or "My Computer," select "Manage."
- Navigate to "Local Users and Groups" > "Users."
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Create a New User:
- Right-click on "Users" and select "New User."
- Fill out the user information:
- Username: (e.g., jdoe)
- Full Name: (e.g., John Doe)
- Description: (e.g., Accounting Department)
- Password: (Set a strong password)
- User Must Change Password at Next Logon: Check this option if required.
- Click “Create” and then “Close.”
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Assign Group Membership:
- Double-click on the newly created user account.
- Go to "Member Of" tab to add the user to necessary groups (e.g., Users, Administrators, etc.).
Step 2: Validate User Accounts
Method
Validation of user accounts can be done by logging in with the new user credentials or checking the properties of the user account in the management interface.
Instructions
-
Log In as the New User:
- Log out of the current account or switch user.
- Enter the username and password for the new user.
- Ensure the user can access the necessary files and applications based on their role.
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Check User Account Properties:
- Return to "Local Users and Groups" in Computer Management.
- Right-click on the user account and select "Properties."
- Validate that the account settings, group memberships, and other pertinent settings are correct.
Step 3: Delete User Accounts
Method
Deleting user accounts should be done carefully, especially to ensure that any associated data is handled appropriately.
Instructions
-
Access User Management:
- Open "Computer Management" and navigate to "Local Users and Groups" > "Users."
-
Delete User Account:
- Right-click on the user account to be deleted.
- Choose “Delete” and confirm the action.
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Handle User Data:
- Before deletion, make sure to back up any necessary data linked to that user account.
Step 4: Develop Access Documentation
Documentation Outline
Create access documentation that outlines the following:
-
User Account Creation Procedure:
- Description of the steps taken to create user accounts.
- Manufacturer recommendations (if any).
- Password policy requirements.
-
User Account Validation Procedures:
- Steps for validating user accounts.
- Who is responsible for validation.
- Frequency of validation checks.
-
User Account Deletion Procedure:
- Conditions under which an account should be deleted (e.g., employee departure).
- Steps for securely deleting a user account.
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Access Levels and Permissions:
- Description of roles and access levels (e.g., admin, standard user).
- Specific permissions assigned per user role.
-
Audit and Review Process:
- Frequency and method of account reviews.
- Steps for identifying inactive accounts.
Sample Documentation Template
# User Access Documentation
## 1. User Account Creation Procedure
- Steps to create user accounts as per guidelines.
- Password complexity requirements.
## 2. User Account Validation Procedure
- Process for logging in as new users.
- Monitoring credential access and validation.
## 3. User Account Deletion Procedure
- Steps for deleting accounts and handling data.
- Conditions for deletion.
## 4. Access Levels and Permissions
- Roles defined and their permissions.
- Admin: Full access
- Standard User: Limited access
## 5. Audit and Review Process
- Bi-annual review of user accounts.
- Identification of inactive accounts for deletion.
Final Steps
Attach the created documentation along with any screenshots or additional materials to your Portfolio of Evidence (POE) as required. Ensure that all account management actions are logged and reflected in the documentation for audit purposes.