Motion-detecting laptop security
 
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Physical locks and tracking software are two different approaches to laptop security, and each has its limitations. Physical locks that bolt down your laptop tend to be heavy, and there's no way to know if your users are taking the extra steps to lock them up, especially when they're traveling. And security software like CyberAngel use a " LoJack " method of tracking a stolen laptop, but it only works if someone tries to connect a stolen laptop to the Internet.
A new entrant in the laptop security market aims to deliver the best of both worlds.
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Caveo Technology has developed Caveo Anti-Theft, a software/hardware combination that is due to be released soon. The hardware part consists of a tiny motion sensor installed either on a PC card or on the motherboard (Caveo is working on OEM agreements with laptop makers). The software part disables a computer in case the laptop is physically stolen.
Caveo's software is based on its motion sensor technology. Here's how the motion sensor works: The user creates a " motion password, " which involves two (or more) specific tilting motions of the laptop. This motion password will either turn on or off the alarm function of the software.
After the laptop is " armed, " any extreme motion - such as someone walking off with the laptop - will set off an audible alarm. The software allows you to set parameters so that accidental brushing or shifting of the laptop doesn't set off an alarm. If the alarm is tripped, the software then disables the computer so a thief can't access the data on the computer. The software sits between the BIOS and the operating system, which means the software loads before the operating system does. The recovery system password is eight characters, making it extremely difficult for a thief to try to break into the system.
I was able to test a laptop that had the motion sensor installed inside the laptop. I created my own " motion password " and recovery password fairly easily. After a few attempts at arming and disarming with my motion password, I got the software armed. I then simulated a theft, and the audible alarm went off. I used my recovery password to get back into the system.
I'm not a professional thief or a password hacker, but everything seems to have been thought out to prevent theft. With any luck, you'll be seeing the " Caveo inside " sticker on your next laptop, and you'll have less to worry about if the laptop does get stolen. For more information on the product and a quick overview of the technology, check out:
Here's a list of some other sites that promote laptop security products:
TrackIT includes a key-chain transmitter and a miniature receiver with a sonic alarm. If you get separated from your laptop case, the siren goes off. The system costs $49.95. Go to this Web site to learn more:
The Laplok Nightsafe is a lock-down type product from England. Check it out here:
www.top-tec.co.uk/Laptop%20Security.htm
Here's a Web site that sells a bunch of different laptop security products:
www.computersecurity.com/laptop/
MobilePlanet offers a bunch of vendors that make laptop security products. Check them out here:
www.mobileplanet.com/listing.asp?cat%5Fid=102&pdept%5Fid=10011&dept%5Fid=8330&dept%5Fname=Security+Devices
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Keith Shaw is Reviews Editor at Network World. In addition, he writes the "Cool Tools" column, which looks at gizmos, gadgets and other mobile computing devices.
You can reach Keith at kshaw@nww.com.
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