12–24 Hardware and Software Guide
Security
Using the Smart Card Reader
(Select Models Only)
Some notebook models are equipped with an embedded smart
card reader. On these models, the driver for your smart card
reader is preinstalled. No action is necessary to install the driver.
The smart card reader is used with industry-standard smart cards,
small plastic cards the size of a credit card. Smart cards carry a
microchip containing memory and a microprocessor. Like
personal computers, they have an operating system to manage
input/output, and include security features to protect against
tampering.
A personal identification number (PIN) is needed to gain access
to the contents of the microchip. Therefore, you can access a
computer protected by a smart card only if you have the correct
smart card and you know the PIN.
Smart cards are available from a variety of manufacturers
and service providers. Smart cards can provide functions such
as protecting a Windows user account and securing online
transactions. Card capabilities depend on the smart card
itself as well as on the smart card application being used.
In addition, you can use a personal digital certificate with the
smart card reader. To do so, ensure that the personal digital
certificate and software you purchase are compliant with the
Microsoft PC/SC smart card standard.
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