Why might an administrator want to limit access to a specific directory?

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Prepare for the Operating System Security Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your test!

Limiting access to a specific directory is primarily a security measure designed to prevent unauthorized users from viewing or accessing sensitive or confidential files. By restricting access, an administrator can ensure that only authorized personnel can retrieve or manipulate the information stored within that directory. This is especially crucial in environments that handle sensitive data, where unauthorized access can lead to data breaches, data loss, or misuse of information.

In contrast, the other possibilities do not align with the fundamental purpose of restricting access. While easier navigation and improving directory structure may help in organizing files, they do not address security concerns. Maintaining a backup of files is an essential practice for data integrity but does not require limiting access to a directory. Therefore, the focus on preventing users from seeing all stored files accurately reflects the primary rationale behind access restrictions.