• Security features can help to deter thieves from stealing your laptop.laptop image by Jorge Figueiredo from Fotolia.com
  
  A big advantage to using a laptop over a desktop computer is being able to take it wherever you go. The mobility of a laptop does open it up to a number of security risks, from getting stolen to being accessed by unauthorized users. Laptop security features don't eliminate all of the security risks associated with a laptop but they can deter or prevent thieves and malicious users from doing a significant amount of damage to your computer.
  
  

Operating Systems and BIOS

• The first line of laptop security for many users is taking advantage of operating system passwords. Passwords can be used for each account, when you log in to administrator accounts, when the computer starts up and when it comes out of sleep mode. All BIOS (basic input/output system) programs also have password protection. A BIOS password is much harder to get around than a user account password, as you have to remove the CMOS battery to reset BIOS.
  
  

Software

• Laptops have access to security software packages similar to those offered on mobile phones. Lo-jack, a company known for car theft deterrent systems, produces Lojack for Laptops. It can track the laptop's location, remotely delete sensitive data and lock down the computer. GadgetTrak is another laptop anti-theft software package. One distinctive feature of GadgetTrak is that it will activate your webcam and send you images of the thief as he's using your laptop.
  
  

Hardware

• All modern laptops have a small slot called a Kensington Security Slot. You can use this slot to attach hardware security devices such as a tether to secure your laptop. The tether is locked with a key or combination lock. Portable laptop safes are another physical security method. The laptop attaches to the safe and you can use it in the enclosure. The laptop safes also have tethers that you can use to secure the laptop.