Thumb-Sized SecuriKey Protects Data

Griffin Technologies showcases a new device that uses hardware and software to keep your PC secure.

Aoife McEvoy, PCWorld.com

LAS VEGAS-- SecuriKey, a hardware-based security system a bit more sophisticated than what's built into Windows XP and 2000, is being shown at the Consumer Electronics Show here this week.

Griffin Technologies is aiming the product at users who may share a PC with others, or who move among client offices with a laptop--or even those who tend to be a little more paranoid about their data. The company's solution is a small USB token-like device that fits on a key ring. Although it's suited for businesses, Griffin representatives say they're also trying to get the attention of consumers and home users.

Varying Levels

Available now, the $150 SecuriKey Personal Edition comes with two devices and a CD in a striking hardened metal case with a clasp. Griffin hopes the silver packaging on retail shelves will catch buyers' eyes.

You plug one of the token-like devices into a USB port, then you use the installation wizard to create your own password and set limits on how much or how little you want to make your PC's drives and folders "public" or "private." The program requires Windows XP or 2000.

For example, if you don't want other users to access any data on your machine, you can keep the whole thing off limits, using the software wizard. As soon as you are leaving your desk, say, to grab a sandwich, you remove the device from the USB port. Then, the look of your desktop disappears from the screen--nobody can access any data on your PC unless they have both your password and the SecuriKey itself.

Multiple 'Locks'

When you return to your desk, the SecuriKey software prompts you for your password and the token to be inserted. Even if someone guessed your password correctly, they would still need to have the SecuriKey at hand.

Likewise, if your laptop was stolen, Griffin Technologies says it would be impossible for any user to access any data on your machine that you had classified as private.

The second USB device is provided as a backup, in case you lose or misplace one of your keys. What if you lose both tokens? Griffin representatives suggest you take the time to create a digital copy of your token's settings (similar to a plastic car key replica) as part of your installation routine.