UAC
Technology & Computing abbreviation · Computer
| Stands for | User Account Control |
|---|---|
| Categories | Technology & Computing |
UAC stands for User Account Control, a computer abbreviation.
Windows security feature that asks for confirmation or an administrator password before a program makes system-wide changes, such as installing software or editing protected folders. The screen dims while the prompt is shown.
Example: A UAC prompt pops up every time the installer tries to write to Program Files.
Usage notes
UAC arrived with Windows Vista in 2007, where frequent prompts drew heavy criticism; Windows 7 added a slider to tune them. Even administrators run with standard rights until they approve elevation. The dimmed "secure desktop" prevents malware from clicking Yes automatically, which is why security guides advise against turning UAC off.
Related abbreviations
More computer abbreviations
- RTOS – Real-time operating system
- SFC – System File Checker
- SOHO – Small office/home office
- sudo – Superuser do
- TTY – Teletypewriter (Unix terminal)
- TUI – Text-based user interface
- UEFI – Unified Extensible Firmware Interface
- UI – User interface
- UTF-16 – Unicode Transformation Format, 16-bit
- UTF-8 – Unicode Transformation Format, 8-bit
- UX – User experience
- WIMP – Windows, icons, menus, pointer