What is User Account Control designed to do in the Windows operating system?

User Account Control (UAC) is designed to enhance the security of the Windows operating system by managing alerts and notifications related to installations and changes made to the operating system. When a program attempts to make changes that require administrative privileges, UAC prompts the user with a notification, asking for permission to continue. This mechanism helps prevent unauthorized changes and potential security risks by making users aware of the changes and requiring their explicit consent.

By actively controlling these alerts, UAC aims to minimize the risk of malicious software making unwanted changes to the system without user knowledge. It establishes a layer of permission verification that helps ensure that any significant actions, particularly those that could affect system integrity and security, are explicitly approved by the user. This functionality is a critical aspect of protecting the operating system and ensures that users maintain control over their systems.