Force shutdown from a remote system
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 security setting determines which users are allowed to shut down a computer from a remote location on the network. Misuse of this user right can result in a denial of service. This user right is defined in the Default Domain Controller Group Policy object (GPO) and in the local security policy of workstations and servers. Default: On workstations and servers: Administrators. On domain controllers: Administrators, Server Operators.
Local security policy
SeRemoteShutdownPrivilege 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.