Posted by the editor on January 04th, 2010

As you read this article many computer users are busy reviewing pricing for multi-user fingerprinting computer security programs. With the proliferation of laptop users, the possibilities loom ever large that the personal data residing on the hard drives of these computers is in peril of falling into the hands of hackers and identity thieves.

Due to their mobility, many of these laptops are used by multiple users, each with their own browser/internet surfing habits. Just as each user’s surfing habits are different so is their compliance with internet security protocols making the mobile computer more vulnerable than ever to attack

The internet underground is actively engaged in capturing information from personal computers. Their relentless assaults keep internet security high on the list of priorities for most users today as they scramble to find new ways to protect information.

All systems require some form of user account and most accounts are protected by a very easy to crack password that can lead to a major problem, since hackers know the habits of most people when it comes to picking a password. A birthday, license plate number or even the name of a super hero make it easy for hackers to access the accounts. Users are creatures of habit and typically use the same passwords for most of their online accounts.

Once inside, hackers use your account for questionable and often times illegal activities, among these may be defacing web sites, stealing billing and credit card information or making fraudulent purchases This is the prevailing reason that the internet giants like Microsoft are hard at work developing new and more advanced methods of authentication. One of these methods is biometrics.

Essentially biometrics consists of a fingerprint scan that serves as an additional security barrier on a computer. Once installed a user will only be allowed access system accounts once authentication as been established. For these purposes authentication resides in a fingerprint. Like all technology these systems do not come cheap and this is where pricing for multi-user fingerprinting computer security impacts the end user – the threat of potential information theft versus the added security of the scanning system.

Many factors come into play with pricing a biometrics system. Some suppliers require a minimum number of users on a network. The cost breakdown includes installation, registration of users and training. The human component has to be organically merged with the new technology and the system will only be as effective as the human compliance. If a user routinely allows someone else to work under their sign on or authentication, that behavior will circumvent the intended purpose of the biometric system. Old habits die hard and old habits were what allowed hackers to breech computer security in the first place.

For an end user the best way to obtain pricing for multi-user fingerprinting security is to contact a computer security consultant, outline your needs and allow them to put together a plan for you.