A hardware key is a small piece of hardware that typically connects to a laptop or desktop computer through a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection. Hardware key is a general term for various types of items. Traditionally, the hardware key was used to authenticate a client to a piece of software. These types of software protection devices are also called dongles or simply security devices.
A USB hardware key.
Although a hardware key is often used as hardware protection for a piece of software, network adapters can also be referred to as hardware keys. Network adapters often work with data encryption, so in that sense they would be similar to a hardware key providing software authentication. Some types of audio attachments may also be referred to as hardware keys when connected through a USB port.
The hardware key is an option for a software licensing system, where vendors must ensure that unauthorized access is prevented. Other types of software simply include key codes for specific users and customers. A hardware key helps to solve the problem of an unauthorized software copying situation, since the corresponding software will only work to a limited extent without the key, or not at all.
Yet another option for software protection is called Software as a Service. Software as a Service or SaaS replaces a hardware keyboard dongle or software codes. With software as a service, software programs are offered directly over the web and typically run on the provider’s server. Vendors can offer these programs for a specific license period, customize them for customers, and make updates and changes from the comfort of their own IT setup.
Software as a Service Options clients do not need to open boxes or install drivers. They don’t have to waste time configuring software programs from a disk. They also don’t have to clog up their own processors and drives with bulky executables and other software program bits. Software as a service is catching on in many parts of the software industry, and hardware keys don’t always seem like a normal form of software authentication. However, with the proliferation of small electronic devices like flash drives, hardware keys may still be popular for some specific types of software authentication.
The people in charge of creating a hardware key or dongle look at certain criteria for the best design. Considerations include ease of implementation and easy-to-use functionality. Attention to detail ensures that hardware keys are an effective way to authenticate a piece of software to the end user.
