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Laptop security devices?

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by stuart_at_oz

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Does anyone have any inormation or experiences with security devices for Laptops?

I am particularly interested in devices such as USB keys or PCMCIA cards (or any variation on the theme) that will stop the laptop from being booted or logged on orsimilar. I have heard of "biorhythm" (fingerprint?) devices and would be interested in info on these too.

I am aware of the Microsoft Windows (NT, 200, XP) EFS, and while that offers protection to data, I would like to also look at methods that provide protection for the whole system

9 replies

by rapidad

As a really quick answer, usb is working well. There are several keys in the 256mb range that can be added to the usb port during an install.
here is info from the net on dells use of usb keys:

Dell will offer a 16MB version of the USB Key device in place of a floppy drive for customers who opt to pair it with one of two Inspiron notebook models. The device uses flash memory and works by plugging into a PC's USB port. When connected, it appears on a computer's desktop as a removable hard drive, allowing people to drag and drop files for storage or to move them to another computer. When not in use, it fits easily into a shirt pocket.

also::
www.diskonkey.com
http://www.selecttechgroup.com/PC-Keys/
http://www.activcard.com/activ/products/end_user/activkey/

by rapidad

I've talked to some of my road warriors and they say some are using (on newer Dells and Sonys) a separate usb HDD (60gig for <$200.00) to load their Os's and Databases. This means that without the external drive the system wont even boot and if theyare let go they take all their info with them on the external drive. Just a thought........

by stuart_at_oz

The Activekey looks interesting.... Appears to offer additional authentification at the logon stage. I was hoping that there may be something that may be available that operates at a BIOS level perhaps, that would make the laptop unusable with out the "key".

The other links appear to be basically USB memory keys, which is not really what I am after.

I don't think that our laptop users (mainly the TOP brass) would be too keen on having to carry an extra drive.... but it's something to keep in mind too.

Thank you .....

by stuart_at_oz

The Activekey looks interesting.... Appears to offer additional authentification at the logon stage. I am hoping that there may be something that may be available that operates at a BIOS level perhaps, that would make the laptop unusable with out the "key".

The other links appear to be basically USB memory keys, which is not really what I am after.

Thank you .....

by stuart_at_oz

Yes, this general sort of thing was what I was looking for..... Now, is it available in Australia.... :-)

by sleepie

We've been installing fingerprint reader pcmcia cards on our laptops. They work really well to secure access to data, but do bugger all to stop the laptop being stolen in the first place. We're running Identix security software, which is fairly straightforward and flexible (for a security product). It's only useful with an NTFS file system, as it uses NTFS security. The laptop can be configured to allow access by fingerprint only, by fingerprint AND password, or on a user by user basis.

The only problems we're had so far have been having to change the model of some existing pcmcia cards (modems, nics etc) so that the fingerprint reader doesn't obstruct their ports. Three months into implementation though, and no other major problems so far.

by stuart_at_oz

If the fingerprint readers worked at the BIOS level then it would be ideal.... but useful none the less.

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