What does CAC stand for?

The term CAC refers to the Common Access Card, which is a smart card used by the United States Department of Defense (DoD) for identification and authentication purposes. It serves multiple functions, including providing access to military installations and systems, enabling secure communications, and serving as a form of identification for personnel. The Common Access Card plays a crucial role in identity management and ensures that only authorized individuals can access sensitive information and facilities.

In contrast, the other options each represent terms that do not accurately describe the CAC. The Central Authentication Card suggests a focus on authentication but lacks the official recognition and specific use associated with CAC. Cryptographic Access Code generally refers to a method of secure communication and does not pertain to a physical card. Lastly, the Control Access Card sounds similar but is not an established term used by the DoD or in identity management contexts. Therefore, the Common Access Card is the term that correctly identifies the specific smart card utilized for identification and access within military frameworks.