Every computer, keyboard and laptop should come with one these days. Whether it's built in, on a USB cable or available in some other way. Not just business ones.

 

They're bloody brilliant.

 

My new laptop has one and it means if I want I don't really have to type my password any more for a lot of things, especially logging in to and unlocking Windows.

 

It's a shame it's not currently supported under Linux but I assume support will come eventually.

 

It does depend on having some decent software to sort out browser and program logins and thankfully the software provided (DigitalPersona) isn't completely shit.

Is it more secure than having a button that says "unlock"?

No, that would be much more secure.

My work laptop has one. I never use it, for to use it would require the lid to be up. But when I close the lid, the bloody thing goes to sleep, even if it's plugged in to the docking station. And to leave the lid up is (a) a distraction and (b) means that I can't pile papers on it.

Change that setting then.

The fingerprint reader is the first thing I disable when I'm building a new laptop for the general population at work. I prefer to give them as few options as possible. They're easily confused.

Yeah, might not be great for the unwashed masses but I think it's a great addition to my laptop. Mainly from a laziness point of view.

Pah - my work laptop does face recognition. Even manages to spot me through a beard. Doesn't spot anyone else, regardless of whether they have a beard. It's great. Except for the guy who sits across from me, who somehow managed to train it to recognise the fire extinguisher behind him.

I want something that will lock and unlock via bluetooth. I've always got my phone on me at work, so if I go away from the laptop it should lose the bluetooth connection to the phone, which should cause it to lock. As and when I come back, the connection would be reestablished, and should in turn unlock the laptop.

 

Of course, that would probably also mean that my phone dies partway through the day due to lack of battery, but one problem at a time!

But you'll always have your fingers. Hopefully.

I remember that being doable years ago with either a Nokia or a Sony Ericsson T610, but I can't remember how. Some of the standard software it came with I think.

I'm not sure how to! :$

 

(it's windows 7, and too much has changed)

Start Menu, type "power" and pick, I think, power options. I think you should be able to take it from there. You can change the behaviour of closing the lid on battery or AC power.

Cheers, Ant, found it!

 

Now to see if it gets set back to defaults on reboot!

HTH.

In spy/gangster movies, they cut off your finger and apply it to the scanner. I suppose it's not so bad if they kill you first.