What does the acronym UAC stand for in Windows?

The acronym UAC stands for User Account Control. This is a security feature introduced in Windows operating systems to prevent unauthorized changes to the operating system. It helps to ensure that changes made to the computer require the permission or consent of an administrator. The main purpose of UAC is to enhance the system's security by reducing the risks associated with malware and unauthorized users attempting to make changes that could affect system integrity.

When UAC is enabled, it prompts users for permission or an administrator password before allowing certain actions that require elevated privileges. This layer of security helps safeguard user data and the operating system itself from harmful modifications. Understanding UAC is crucial for anyone working with Windows, as it significantly impacts how system administration and user interactions are managed.