ASL STEM

Definition

The string of characters entered by a user to verify his or her identity to the network. The system compares the code against a stored list of authorized passwords and users. If the code is legitimate, the system allows the user access at whatever security level has been approved for the owner of the password. Ideally a password is a combination of text, numbers, and punctuation or other characters that cannot be guessed at or easily cracked by intruders.

Source: Microsoft Computer Dictionary. 5th ed. Redmond, Wash. : Microsoft Press, 2002. Print.