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

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.