Boost Your PC Security by 1000% for Under $25 with These Biometric Devices

3 min read

Have you heard of passwordless authentication and how it can significantly enhance your PC security? This new IT trend aims to replace traditional passwords and numeric passcodes with methods like biometrics, one-time codes, or magic links. We’ve already embraced this with our phones. While you still set up a 4 or 6-digit passcode, most phones unlock simply by looking at them. That is the beauty of biometrics. To unlock the device, it shifts from something you know (password) to something you are (fingerprints or facial recognition). This inherently increases your security.

Introduction to Passwordless Authentication

Okay, so maybe we’re not going to have a 1000% increase, but the use of biometrics for your PC security is a great way to go. Using biometrics on a computer has both advantages and disadvantages.

The Benefits of Using Biometrics for PC Security

On the positive side, biometrics provide enhanced security as they rely on unique physical characteristics, making unauthorized access difficult. They are also convenient, streamlining the login process and eliminating the need to remember complex passwords. Additionally, biometric traits are difficult to forge and non-transferable, ensuring access remains personal and secure.

Potential Drawbacks of Biometric Authentication

However, there are significant drawbacks, including privacy concerns related to the collection and storage of biometric data. The implementation of biometric systems can be costly, requiring specialized hardware and software. No system is perfect, and issues like false positives and false negatives can affect usability and security. Physical limitations, such as injuries or aging, can impact the reliability of biometric authentication, and if biometric data is compromised, it poses a long-term security risk since it cannot be changed like a password. Accessibility issues may also arise, as some individuals with disabilities or certain physical conditions may have difficulty using biometric systems. Therefore, while biometrics offer a secure and convenient authentication method, they require careful consideration to balance security, usability, and privacy concerns.

With all that being said, I do want to point you to two devices that I have been testing for several weeks and absolutely love. First of all, it’s important to know that this is not a paid advertisement. I simply bought these two devices and began testing them. Secondly, these devices aren’t simply plug-and-play. You do need to download the specific driver from their website and upload that through your PC’s device manager. If you’ve never heard of the device manager, don’t fret. Their documentation is really great and walks you through every step.

Kensington VeriMark USB Fingerprint Key Reader

The first device I have been testing on my laptop is the Kensington VeriMark USB Fingerprint Key Reader. As of today, the cost is only $23.99. This has been very reliable for me. I’ve kept this plugged in constantly with my laptop. It sticks out a little bit more than a traditional USB dongle for a wireless keyboard, but I haven’t found this to be an issue. This device will work great for laptops or possibly micro desktops that sit on your desk. Although you do need to keep in mind how you’re going to easily put your fingerprint on the device.

Kensington VeriMark Desktop USB Fingerprint Key Reader

The second device I’m testing is for my desk. I currently have this connected to my docking station, so it’s only used when my laptop is connected. With that being said, I really like this. It has a very small footprint and seems to respond faster than the USB device plugged in directly. This is the Kensington VeriMark Desktop USB Fingerprint Key Reader. This device is a little more costly as it’s currently $75.99, but I think it is really worth it.

Conclusion: Investing in Biometric Security

Bottom line, you will still need to have strong passwords or passcodes to log into your computer. These devices have had a few moments where they wouldn’t respond and I had to select another way to sign in. And yes, they are going to cost you a little additional money. But here’s the truth: people hate passwords. Every site requires them. So we either use the same thing every time or make them super easy to remember. Why not invest a few dollars for a one-time purchase to give your business great security while also making your employees’ lives that much easier? This is truly a win/win/win for all parties.

Have questions or need help securing your network? Contact Adoverse IT today for expert advice and solutions!