HDD encryption
Hi
I have a new e6520 laptop which has the dell protection software for encrypting the drive. The bios also has the ability lock the HDD should it go missing.
Which is the best option to use should the laptop/disk go missing? it would appear that the bios hdd PW is sufficient and easier to manage...
Thanks
I have a new e6520 laptop which has the dell protection software for encrypting the drive. The bios also has the ability lock the HDD should it go missing.
Which is the best option to use should the laptop/disk go missing? it would appear that the bios hdd PW is sufficient and easier to manage...
Thanks
Hard-disk passwords (BIOS level) can normally not be removed without knowing them, but you should make sure you select a strong password. Also make sure the user doesn't put a sticker on the laptop with the password on it. Also lock the BIOS itself with a strong passwords, as you can only unlock such a password with the help of the manufacturer and proof of ownership if you don't know it. Removing batteries or shorting a jumper doesn't help. also back-door passwords don't help.
Encryption of course gives you additional protection, but here make sure you have made a backup of the keys, and also that they are stored safely. If you loose them, you won't be able to access your data.
Encryption of course gives you additional protection, but here make sure you have made a backup of the keys, and also that they are stored safely. If you loose them, you won't be able to access your data.
ASKER
Exactly how i see it (re the key you need to access data).
So im going to lock the BIOS & lock the HDD.
So im going to lock the BIOS & lock the HDD.
ASKER CERTIFIED SOLUTION
membership
This solution is only available to members.
To access this solution, you must be a member of Experts Exchange.
not sure what to think of this : http://www.geckoandfly.com/4093/unlock-and-recover-hard-drive-password-hard-disk-password-removal-tool/
It looks interesting, and if it works properly then your data is still safe as it removes the data from the HD. It may need a test though.
ASKER
nobus: link does not work...
it worked when i posted the link..maybe the server is off line now..try later?
ASKER
still down, what does the link say?
you can download a tool to remove the password, as it says in the link itself
SOLUTION
membership
This solution is only available to members.
To access this solution, you must be a member of Experts Exchange.
ASKER
using the bios lock?
Yes.
now the link works again..
ASKER
has anyone tried it?
I currently don't have the hardware available to test it.
you're free to try it
I am of the opinion that the software encryption would be better.
While I don't know exactly what kind of BIOS protection you are talking about, due to the limited memory available in the BIOS, you are not likely to get a high security encryption.
Also, there are many software encryption products that allow additional features like:
- boot level encryption
- hardware lock through USB dongle.
- encrypting specific data, using virtual partitions that can be hidden, so a regular thief won't even know that there is hidden and encrypted data on your machine.
Hope this helps.
Cheers,
Sarang