Security Products

Buying a laptop cable lock

Before buying a laptop lock, check that you have a suitable anchor point to attach to. You'll need something strong and stable such as a large, heavy desk or a wall. Check also that your laptop has a security slot built into its chassis that you can connect the cable to. Most laptops feature some form of lock slot but they vary in size and shape across different manufacturers. Many Apple laptops don't include built-in slots but you can buy third party lock accessories that can be attached to the base or lid.

Privacy filters

If you're working with sensitive data, whether office bound or on the move, a privacy filter fitted to your screen can protect your information from snooping eyes. Privacy filters are essentially polarised plastic sheets that work by blocking out light from side angles. A laptop fitted with a privacy filter will only allow the screen to be viewed by the person sat directly in front of the screen. Anyone peeking over your shoulder or from the side on will just see a plain black screen which makes privacy filters an effective security tool for travelling business people, workers in public places and anyone working with sensitive or confidential data. Laptop privacy filters also offer added benefits such as reducing screen glare and protecting the laptop screen from accidental damage.

Buying a privacy filter

When weighing up a privacy filter there are several things to look for. All filters will block out some light from your laptop's screen making it appear dimmer. You can offset this by turning up the screen's brightness but this will drain your battery quicker. Some manufacturers provide high clarity filters that allow more light to pass through offering better visual clarity than regular black filters.

Fit type

Another consideration is how the filter is fitted to your laptop's screen as this can vary. The best filters are fitted with reusable suction strips making them easy to put on and remove without degrading over time or leaving any sticks mess on your screen.

Some filters are dual sided allowing you to choose from a matte or a glossy finish. Matte filters help reduce reflections off the screen but will dull the colours visible from your screen. There are also some filters that produce a gold reflection when viewed from the side. These are usually more expensive and produce less screen dimming but are more reflective than standard filters so aren't great if you work outdoors or in bright conditions.