acceptable use policy (AUP)

Acceptable Use Policies (AUP) form the usage policies for networks, transit systems, and services. The enforcement of the acceptable use policies depend on the network or service.

Acceptable Use Policies (AUP) are a formal or informal document that defines correct and unacceptable network usage and the consequences that result. In the context of Web-based services or when using cooperative networks or enterprise networks, one often encounters appropriate use policies that provide legal certainty for the service or network provider.

Good user policies contain rules for netiquette, limit the use of existing resources, exclude commercial use, and protect privacy. They also describe the scenario if the user violates these rules.