Can I create a common local admin account on Windows and macOS devices using Automation?Solved

Hello @laura123 ,

Yes, this can be done using Hexnode Automation.

For this requirement, you can create separate automations for Windows and macOS devices and use the Create User Account action. This allows you to create a local user account in bulk without writing a custom script.

A typical setup would be:

1. Go to Automate tab.
2. Create a new automation.
3. Select the platform, such as macOS or Windows.
4. Choose the Create User Account action.
5. Enter the local account details, including the username and password.
6. Set the account type as Administrator if the account needs admin privileges.
7. Configure when the automation should run, such as at a scheduled time or based on device activity.
8. Target a device group.

For a mixed environment, create one automation for macOS devices and another for Windows devices. You can use the same local admin account details in both automations if you want a common account across the organization.

So I don’t need to add the password inside a script? I was looking at scripts first, but what I really need is just one admin account that works on any managed computer in the organization.

Correct. If your goal is only to create a local account, you do not need to use a script. Use the built-in Create User Account action in Automation and provide the account details there.

A few recommendations:

• Test the automation on a small test device group first.
• Confirm that the account is created successfully and has administrator privileges.
• After testing, assign the automation to the required Windows and macOS device groups.
• Ensure the devices are powered on, active, and connected to the internet when the automation is scheduled to run.

You can also create an activity-based automation for newly enrolled devices, so the local admin account is created automatically after enrollment.

Regards,
Simon Scott
Hexnode UEM