Sign Out / Log Out

What is Sign Out / Log Out?


Definition

Sign out or log out means to end the current user session on a computer, website, or application so the account is no longer active on that device. After signing out, the system returns to a state where another user must sign in to access the account. This helps protect personal information and prevent unauthorized access, especially on shared or public computers.

Frayer Model Overview

Frayer model diagram explaining the computer term “Sign Out / Log Out,” with sections for definition, characteristics, examples, and non-examples.

Characteristics

  • Ends access for the current user account

  • Does not delete files or settings

  • Returns the system or service to a sign-in state

  • Applies to one account at a time

  • Often required on shared or public devices

Examples

  • Signing out of a college portal on a shared computer

  • Logging out of email after checking messages

  • Signing out of a cloud service in a browser

  • Logging out of a library workstation

  • Signing out before another user signs in

Non-Examples

  • Closing a browser tab or window

  • Turning off the computer

  • Locking the screen temporarily

  • Switching between open applications

  • Changing a password

Related Terms