How to Create a USB Security Key For Windows
If you want to secure a Windows 10 computer, you have a lot of options. We’ll show you how to use USB Raptor, because it’s free, but there are also a number of paid apps that do the same thing if you prefer having access to extensive user support in case something ever goes wrong. Some paid apps, like Rohos Logon Key, work on both Windows and Mac. Here’s how to create a USB security key using USB Raptor:
How to Make a USB Key For Your Mac
There is no free USB security key app for macOS like there is for Windows, but there are a number of options that provide a free trial. Rohos Logon Key is one option that’s available for both Windows and Mac, and it has a free trial, so you may want to try it out if you use Macs exclusively or if you use a mix of Macs and Windows computers.
Run USB Raptor at Windows startupStart in system trayUSB Raptor always starts armed
Unlike USB Raptor for Windows, Rohos Logon Key for Mac adds an additional layer of protection. When you don’t have the key installed, it actually isn’t possible to log in at all even if someone has your password. That makes Rohos Logon Key for Mac a bit more secure. Here’s how to create a USB security key for Mac using Rohos Logon Key:
Why Use a USB Security Key?
Strong passwords go a long way toward securing our computers and online accounts, but they can’t stand up against keyloggers and other attacks. When you set your computer up to use a USB security key, you ensure that nobody will be able to access it without the key. The downside of using a USB security key is that you’ll also be locked out of your computer if you lose it. Some USB security key apps allow you to leave the option of inputting a password in place to bypass the key, in which case they key is more of a convenience and less of a security measure.
How Do USB Security Keys Work?
To set up a USB security key, you need a USB drive and a USB security key app. You install the app on your computer, set it up, and then use it to create your USB security key. Whenever your computer is on, the app constantly scans your USB ports for a device that contains a specific encrypted file. If that file is not located, the computer is locked down until you insert the USB security key that contains the file. There is a brief moment of vulnerability with some USB security key apps when you first turn your computer on and log in. If someone has your password, but not your USB security key, they will be able to log in and have a few moments to view and access your files before the USB security key software launches and secures your computer. Additionally, anyone with access to your computer can set the USB security key software to not launch when your computer starts up. With that in mind, it’s important to maintain password secrecy and lock your computer by removing the USB security key whenever you step away from it.
