TestOut Linux Pro Practice Test 2025 – All-in-One Guide to Master Your Certification!

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What does a '!' indicate in the /etc/shadow file?

The account is locked

In the /etc/shadow file, the presence of a '!' (exclamation mark) at the beginning of the password field indicates that the account is locked. When an account is locked, the user is prevented from logging in, as the system treats the '!' as a marker that disables authentication with the password stored in that field. This is a common security measure to prevent unauthorized access when an account is temporarily inaccessible or needs to be restricted for some reason, such as a security concern or administrative action.

The use of '!' specifically modifies how the password is processed by the system. If a user attempts to log in when their account is locked, the system will not allow authentication or access as it recognizes there is no valid password to check against. This locking mechanism provides administrators a way to manage user access without deleting the account, which allows for a potentially easier re-enabling process in the future.

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The password is expired

The user is disabled

The account is active

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