What is User Account Control (UAC)?
User Account Control (UAC) is a security feature in Windows that helps to protect a user’s computer by limiting apps and tasks that the user can perform with administrative privileges. UAC was introduced in Windows Vista and is still present in Windows 10.
How does UAC Work?
When UAC is enabled, any time a user tries to perform a task that requires elevated privileges (such as installing software or changing system settings), they will be prompted to enter an administrator password or confirm their choice by clicking an “OK” button. This helps to ensure that the user is aware of the potential risks associated with the task and is taking responsibility for the task’s outcome.
Advantages of UAC
UAC helps to protect a user’s computer by:
- Preventing malicious applications or software from making unauthorized changes to a user’s computer
- Limiting the risk of malware infections by prompting the user before they download or install software
- Enforcing secure authentication methods such as biometrics or two-factor authentication
Disadvantages of UAC
UAC can be inconvenient for users who regularly need to perform tasks that require administrative privileges. Additionally, some older programs may not be compatible with UAC, resulting in errors when the user attempts to run the program.
Conclusion
User Account Control (UAC) is an important security feature that helps to protect a user’s computer from malicious applications and malware. While it can be inconvenient for users who need to perform tasks with administrative privileges, UAC helps to ensure that users are aware of the potential risks associated with their actions. For more information, please see the following links: