The Switch User built-in script allows administrator users to temporarily assume the identity of another user. Switch User has a variety of uses, such as:

  • Reproducing and troubleshooting problems specific to a user to diagnose permissions issues.

  • Updating an issue on behalf of another user if they are unavailable.

To switch back to your original user, click the Return to session as [your name] link in the Switch User banner, or log out and in again.

An example Switch User banner, with linked text.

  1. To switch users, navigate to Built-in Scripts>Switch to a Different User.

  2. Under User, type the name of the target user.

  3. Click Preview to see if the user switch is valid.

    You cannot switch to a user with a higher permission level than your own.

  4. If valid, click Run. Then click here under Result to continue on as that user.

    The Switch to a Different User section of a Built-in Scripts screen. The text to indicate the current user is highlighted.

When a user assumes the identity of another user, it is recorded in the audit log.