This simple gadget makes it difficult for thieves to steal your laptop.

Important points of ZDNET

• StarTech.com Universal Laptop Lock Get it from Amazon for $46.
• A sturdy, well-made laptop lock is enough to deter opportunistic thieves.
• It’s not the lightest or most convenient thing to carry.

As high-tech devices become smaller and lighter, they become more vulnerable to theft. While it may be nearly impossible to eliminate the risk, you can greatly deter thieves.

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One tool that I have found to be very effective is StarTech.com Universal Laptop Lock. This is a 6.6-foot cut-resistant steel cable with a lock on one end that fits into a variety of security slots. The opposite end has a loop that can be secured around immovable objects, making it very difficult for someone to walk away with the device.

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specification

• rock: Tubular lock with ball joint design that can rotate 360 ​​degrees and pivot 90 degrees (2 keys included)
• cable length: 6.6 feet (2 meters)
• compatibility: Noble wedge, K slot (T bar), Nanolock slot

Laptop locks are not a new concept. Devices from laptops to docking stations have a variety of security slots, so finding the right lock can be a pain.

The Universal Laptop Lock addresses this issue with an adjustable tip that fits the three most common security slot types. Simply twist the adjuster to resize the tip to fit your device.

Note: A popular line of laptops without security slots is Apple’s MacBook.

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Additionally, the universal laptop lock comes with a set of spacers that ensure the lock stays snug against the body of your device and avoids rattling or scratching.

The opposite end of the cable has a loop that can be secured to a table leg or other sturdy anchor point. The sturdy 0.17 inch (4.4 mm) thick cable is constructed from cut-resistant carbon steel, making it extremely difficult to cut with a hacksaw or scissors.

No lock is completely foolproof, and a skilled person may be able to break this lock in less than a minute, but the expertise required for an opportunistic thief to break through this lock without a key They are unlikely to possess the knowledge or tools.

The lock is designed to resist brute force attempts, such as pulling or pulling, and to counter aggressive forms of attack. This robust design acts as a substantial deterrent against theft.

Overall, this is a well-designed and durable lock to keep your belongings safe. The only real downside is that the steel cable weighs around 147g, which is quite a bit of weight to carry around if you plan on using this on the go.

ZDNET purchase advice

A determined or skilled attacker may be able to break through this lock, but such individuals are rare. Opportunistic thieves pose the biggest risk, and a sturdy lock like this will likely make them think twice before trying to steal your belongings. This results in StarTech.com Universal Laptop Lock Worth buying for less than $50.