Final answer:
The security feature in Windows that prompts users during software installation is the User Account Control (UAC), thus correct answer is option C.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the Windows operating system, the User Account Control (UAC) serves as a crucial security measure when initiating program installations. Acting as a gatekeeper, UAC aims to thwart unauthorized alterations to your computer. Whenever a software installation is underway or adjustments to system configurations are in progress, UAC intervenes, presenting a prompt that demands your approval or an administrator password before allowing the operation to proceed. This deliberate interruption serves to keep users informed about modifications that could impact the security or stability of their systems, fostering an environment of transparency and control.
By necessitating user confirmation, UAC acts as a formidable defense against inadvertent or malicious software installations. This proactive approach significantly reduces the risk of undesirable alterations to the system, mitigating potential threats posed by malware and other unauthorized programs. Essentially, UAC stands as a sentinel at the entrance of your computer's security fortress, ensuring that only trusted and authorized changes are permitted, thus fortifying the overall integrity of the Windows environment.