Importance

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Abstract

A computer security system is described. Each authorized user is provided with a key device that holds a serial number and an encryption key. A validation record stored on the computer's hard disk contains an unencrypted key device serial number and an encrypted hard disk serial number. The user connects the key device to the computer prior to power-up or reset. A program implements a user validation procedure. The procedure permits entry past a first security level if the key device serial number matches the unencrypted number in the validation record. If the first level validation is successful, the procedure then uses the encryption key to decrypt the hard drive serial number found in the stored validation record. The procedure permits entry past a second security level if the validation record is properly decrypted and the hard disk serial number matches the decrypted number. Failure in any step powers down the computer and renders it useless.

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First Claim