Windows Server 2022 • Release: 7 Benchmark Date: 05 Jan 2026

CAT I V-254374 WN22-CC-000430

Windows Server 2022 must disable the Windows Installer Always install with elevated privileges option.

Documentable No
Rule ID SV-254374r1051099_rule
CCI References
CCI-003980CCI-001812

Discussion

Standard user accounts must not be granted elevated privileges. Enabling Windows Installer to elevate privileges when installing applications can allow malicious persons and applications to gain full control of a system.

Check Procedure

If the following registry value does not exist or is not configured as specified, this is a finding:

Registry Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE
Registry Path: \SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Installer\

Value Name: AlwaysInstallElevated

Type: REG_DWORD
Value: 0x00000000 (0)

Fix Action

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> Windows Components >> Windows Installer >> Always install with elevated privileges to "Disabled".