If there's a single piece of equipment that should be mandatory in every home office, it's a security device to protect your computer hardware, peripherals and stored data. Ask anyone who's been the victim of a home break-in - the equipment can be replaced, but the loss of business files can be catastrophic!
Computer security doesn't have to be expensive. There is a wide variety of computer-locking devices on the market today, ranging in price from $20 to hundreds of dollars. Only you know how much your investment is worth!
Computer security products generally fall into the following categories:
Cable-Plate Systems -
The most popular option involves attaching tough cables to security plates mounted on your hardware with tamper-proof screws, bolts or barrels. The cables can then be wrapped around furniture or bolted to a wall. But be warned - smart thieves may be equipped with shears to cut through the cables!
Drive Locks -
These inexpensive key-based locks make your power switches and internal drives inaccessible. Also available for peripherals such as extra floppy drives or CD burners. Just don't lose the key!
Tower Enclosures -
Made from steel or other durable materials, CPU tower enclosures protect the hardware and can be locked or bolted down. Costs begin at about $100, but for expensive equipment it's worth it!
Alarms & Sirens -
High-volume alarms can be attached to the computer or mounted nearby. These are just like home burglar alarms, and even come in models equipped with motion or light sensors.
Monitoring Systems -
24-hour external monitoring of alarm-based computer security sytstems works the same as home security monitoring. Monthly costs, but a wise investment for offices and work areas that are removed from your home's living quarters.
For more information on the variety of computer security products available today, check out some of the shopping links at the top of this page.
