What defines a standard user account in Windows?

A standard user account in Windows is designed to have limited permissions compared to an administrator account. This limitation ensures that such users cannot make significant changes to system files, security settings, or install programs that could impact the overall stability and security of the operating system. The key characteristic of a standard user account is its restriction on altering system-critical components, thereby preventing accidental or malicious modifications that could compromise the system.

This model helps maintain a secure environment, especially in shared or multi-user systems, by requiring administrative approval for actions that could affect the operating system's integrity. It serves to protect the system from unintentional changes that a user may not fully understand or intend to make.