Biometric devices scan and remember unique aspects of various body parts. This can include your iris, head image, or fingerprint. This information is used as a key to prevent unauthorized users from accessing whatever the biometric device is securing. There are many different types of biometric devices, such as:
- Fingerprint USB thumb drive: has a tiny fingerprint scanner. You slide your finger over the drive to unlock the contents of the thumb drive.
- Microsoft fingerprint scanner: replaces the standard username and password authentication. When a web site asks for a username and password you simply press your finger against the fingerprint scanner. It will then confirm your identity with special software.
- Fingerprint scanners: Used to gain access to a specific area, such as a data center. Can be troublesome if a user's fingerprint is damaged or altered.
- Iris and retinal scans: considered to be more secure form of biometric authentication.
Implementation of biometric systems can be tricky and sometimes expensive. Because of this, biometrics should only be considered for extremely sensitive data.
Sources:
Biometric authentication know-how: Devices, systems and implementation. (n.d.). Retrieved April 28, 2016, from http://searchsecurity.techtarget.com/tip/Biometric-authentication-know-how-Devices-systems-and-implementation
Meyers, M. (2012). All-in-one CompTIA A certification exam guide: (exams 220-801 & 220-802). New York: McGraw-Hill.
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