IBM Biometric Security

I'm a college student looking to pruchase the T42 for college.
I haven't decided between the 15" or the 14.1" screen yet and I'm not sure if that will effect the answer to my question.

I've been reading about this Finger Print scanner they have featured on there T42's and was wondering what people's opinions where of it being plausible for college use. Since a concern of mine would be someone trying to steal my notebook I would think the Finger Print Security wouldn't let them get far or have any use for it... besides maybe taking the RAM out of it or something.

Basically just wanted anyone's Ya or Nay opinion if it's worth the extra money in my situation.

 

First off, I'd get the 14", the 15" is a pound heavier, which sort of defeats the purpose. As for the biometrics, I really like that option in my Fujitsu. I know my data is safe if I leave my notebook alone for a few minutes in the office or whatnot. If your machine gets stolen though, you'll only be safe by encrypting files, which their security program allows for.

 

Also if someone steals your notebook and they can't access it, chances are you won't get it back anyway.

 

I have it on my T42. It is kinda cool since I don't have to type in my password, but I would pay a lot extra for it.

 

I think zazonz meant to say "wouldn't" based on the start of the post and his tone there...I might be wrong. I have it, and would say it's useful, but not worth $200 extra or anything, I don't think it's essential for a student. If somebody steals your laptop, they'll realize after the fact it has biometric security built in and chances are they won't give it back to you because they deem it as useless, so it's only really good for keeping your data secure and not a theft deterrent per se.

 

You are correct sir.

 

hmmm since we are on the topic of the biomtric security i have a question...

my friend bought on of those usb fingerprint scanners (where u kinda press ure finger onto the red glass).....well he used his in logging on and of fthe computer but also used for all his gmail and hotmail passwords..

does the IBM one have that type of capability?

or is it only for logging on and off

 

Because your fingerprint reader is the press and hold kind and not the swip, check to make sure you can't bypass the password by using the fog method. There are other methods to bypass (example: gummy finger) but the fog method is the most realistic threat: it doesn't require tools or advanced knowlege, you just breath on the sensor to bring up a finger print.

I just got my Thinkpad T43 and the fingerprint reader uses the swip which I like. I haven't figured out how to set it for websites if it's even possible. Also it's a little more sensitive to your finger because you have to swip just right - but from a security stand point that's a good thing.