How does the "lockout duration" setting impact user account security?

How does the "lockout duration" setting impact user account security?

• A. It allows unlimited login attempts
• B. It determines report frequency for failed attempts
• C. It affects how long an account remains locked
• D. It simplifies user account creation

Answer: (C)

The "lockout duration" setting is crucial for user account security as it specifies the period during which an account remains inaccessible after a predetermined number of failed login attempts. When an account is locked, it prevents unauthorized access, thereby protecting sensitive information from potential breaches. Having a specific lockout duration helps to strike a balance between security and usability; if an account is locked for too long, legitimate users may be frustrated and unable to access their information. Conversely, a short lockout duration may increase the risk of unauthorized access if an attacker attempts to guess a password repeatedly. Therefore, implementing an appropriate lockout duration enhances security by discouraging brute-force attacks while still allowing users to regain access in a reasonable timeframe after a lockout.

The "lockout duration" setting is crucial for user account security as it specifies the period during which an account remains inaccessible after a predetermined number of failed login attempts. When an account is locked, it prevents unauthorized access, thereby protecting sensitive information from potential breaches.

Having a specific lockout duration helps to strike a balance between security and usability; if an account is locked for too long, legitimate users may be frustrated and unable to access their information. Conversely, a short lockout duration may increase the risk of unauthorized access if an attacker attempts to guess a password repeatedly. Therefore, implementing an appropriate lockout duration enhances security by discouraging brute-force attacks while still allowing users to regain access in a reasonable timeframe after a lockout.