An acceptable use policy (AUP), acceptable usage policy, or fair use policy, is a set of rules applied by the owner of a network, website, or service that restricts how the network, website, or system may be used. An AUP sets guidelines as to how it should be used. The most important part of an AUP document is the code of conduct governing a user’s behavior while connected to the network and what actions will be taken should the policy be violated.