Notebook security system using infrared key

摘要

A multilevel infrared (IR) type security system prevents unauthorized use of a computer. A program resident on the computer implements a user-validation procedure. An IR key device carries a first serial number and an encryption key. A second serial number corresponds to a device internal to the computer. A mass storage device installed in the computer stores a validation record that includes an unencrypted portion and an encrypted portion, the unencrypted portion including a copy of the first serial number and the encrypted portion including a copy of said second serial number and a user personal identification number. The key device is coupled and interfaced with an infrared port on the computer by the user. The first serial number and the encryption key are read from the key device in order to gain authorized use of the computer. The key device may be decoupled from the computer after authorized use of the computer has been gained, and during operation of the computer.