In today�s age of identify and data theft, you have to be concerned about the security of your data, especially when using a flash drive that can be easily misplaced or stolen.But what options are available to make flash drives secure?Corsair, well-known manufacturer of high-quality memory products, might just have the solution with the Corsair Flash Padlock.How does this product compare to other methods of flash drive data security?Let�s find out.
About Corsair:
Corsair has been a leader in the design and manufacture of high-speed modules since 1994. Our focus has always been on supporting the special demands of mission-critical servers and high-end workstations, as well as the performance demands of extreme gamers.
As a pioneer in high-speed module design, Corsair is a trusted supplier to many computer manufacturers. In high-density memory solutions, Corsair has always been one of the first suppliers to achieve advanced qualifications on Intel, Tyan and SuperMicro server platforms. We also work closely with other major server platform manufacturers to release product that is 100% compatible with their latest server products.
Features:
Auto-Locking � Self locking after removal from computer
Customizable PIN � Set your own PIN and make it easy to remember
Easy to Use � Direct keypad access and indicator lights make locking/unlocking simple
Plug and Play � Hardware based security works without installing or running software
Platform independent � Works on Windows, MAC and Linux platforms without the use of software
Capacity: 1GB or 2GB
The product:
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The Corsair Flash Padlock USB flash drive arrived in a typical clear package that most flash drives products seem to come in.The drive is prominently displayed on the front of the package and the back has some information in tiny print in multiple languages.Our sample drive has a capacity of 1GB, but Corsair also offers the Flash Padlock in a 2GB capacity.
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Opening the package, we find the Flash Padlock accompanied by a few accessories; namely, a lanyard, USB extension cord, and an instruction manual.I like seeing flash drives that come with those accessories, since they turn out to be very useful if you don�t have them already.The lanyard has a clip that allows the flash drive to be detached from the cord easily.
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As you�ve probably noticed by now, the Flash Padlock doesn�t look like any ordinary flash drive; the drive is equipped with a hardware combination �lock� that limits electronic access to the data contained on the flash drive.The drive has a keypad on the front of it where you enter in your PIN number, much like an ATM machine.Once the PIN number is entered, you have a certain amount of time (15 seconds) to plug in the flash drive before it automatically locks again.
If you�re like me, you might be wondering what the advantages are of this �hardware� solution as opposed to others like software password protection.Corsair actually produced a couple of nice white papers on the subject, going into great detail on why the Flash Padlock is superior.For example, password protection is dependent on the computer�s operating system and also can be hacked by either brute force computer methods or by keystroke monitoring, all of which are not valid for the Flash Padlock.The Padlock has a separate security processor that works independently from the main flash drive and doesn�t require any drivers, software, etc.I think this is a superior security solution to the others and makes sense in a lot of applications.
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The drive is actually fairly large compared to other flash drives, likely due to the size of the keypad.The Padlock is also powered using a lithium battery that is comes pre-installed in the drive.The battery concerned me, and I checked with Corsair to get more details.According to them, the battery is rated to run for up to three years.If however, it should die, the data or security features does not get erased.The user can put the device into the USB port and use the power to enter the pin and open the drive.Unfortunately, the battery can�t be replaced, which is a little disappointing but not the end of the world.
