Debug programs
Verified with Windows Security Options 25H2 — updated on July 25, 2026
Security policy
This is a Security Options policy (Windows Settings > Security Settings), applied by the security engine — not an Administrative Template (ADMX). In GPMC/gpedit it is configured under Local Policies > Security Options.
Path in the GPO console
Computer Configuration\Windows Settings\Security Settings\Local Policies\User Rights Assignment Description
This user right determines which users can attach a debugger to any process or to the kernel. Developers who are debugging their own applications do not need to be assigned this user right. Developers who are debugging new system components will need this user right to be able to do so. This user right provides complete access to sensitive and critical operating system components. Caution Assigning this user right can be a security risk. Only assign this user right to trusted users. Default: Administrators
Local security policy
SeDebugPrivilege This setting has no registry key. It is stored in the local security database (LSA) and is configured through the Group Policy console or secpol.msc.