What does maximum password aging refer to?

Maximum password aging refers to a security practice where users are required to change their passwords after a predetermined period of time. This is implemented to enhance security by reducing the risk of unauthorized access that could occur if credentials are compromised but not updated. By establishing a time limit for password validity, organizations can minimize the potential for long-term exploitation of stagnant credentials.

The practice of setting a maximum password age helps ensure that even if a password is discovered or stolen, its utility for an attacker is limited due to the requirement to change it regularly. This mechanism encourages users to actively maintain their account security and stay vigilant about their authentication practices.