On networks and multiuser operating systems, the set of rules that defines whether a new user is permitted access to the system and whether an existing user is granted additional rights or expanded access to other system resources. Account policy also specifies the minimum length of passwords, the frequency with which passwords must be changed, and whether users can recycle old passwords and use them again.(Ref: Dyson, Dictionary of Networking)
With Windows NT computers, controls the way passwords must be used by all user accounts of an individual computer. With Windows NT Advanced Servers, controls the way passwords must be used by all user accounts of a domain.
Controls the way passwords must be used by all user accounts of a domain, or of an individual computer. Specifics include minimum password length, how often a user must change his or her password, and how often users can reuse old passwords. Account policy can be set for all user accounts in a domain when administering a domain.
a set of rules that defines which access rights are assigned to which users on a network
Specifies how passwords must be defined and employed for all user accounts on a system. It specifically addresses the issues of password aging, password uniqueness, and locking a user account because of invalid logon attempts. CFR 21 Part 11 mandates technical controls in these areas specifically.
n. 1. On local area networks and multiuser operating systems, a set of rules governing whether a new user is allowed access to the system and whether an existing user's rights are expanded to include additional system resources. An account policy also generally states the rules with which the user must comply while using the system in order to maintain access privileges. 2. In Windows NT, a set of rules controlling the use of passwords by the user accounts of a domain or of an individual computer. See also domain (definition 2).