Home > Consumer Reviews > Curtis 06414 Notebook Computer Security System

When it comes to notebook security you want something that is going to deter a crime of opportunity. You want reasonable security while you leave your laptop at your desk at work or on a table at the library while you're walking around. Cable security devices aren't going to stop a determined thief, but they will prevent someone from casually walking off with your notebook or snipping the cable with wirecutters in a crowded place.

With that said, any notebook device should be simple to use with as few seperate pieces as possible, otherwise you're not always going to use it and may end up losing parts or leaving them at home.

The Curtis security system offers reasonable security, if you don't mind the fact that it requires a minimum of 3 seperate pieces to work -- a cable, a seperate lock and a tiny metal attachment that hooks into your notebook's security slot. You wrap the cable around something reasonably unmoveable, hook the "connector" to the laptop and use the seperate lock to connect cable to the "connector". (The other option is to permanently glue a connector to your notebook.) This kit comes with a storage case to help you not lose any of the pieces. You'll probably need it.

Now compare this system to the Kensington Notebook Microsaver security system: 1 cable with an attached lock. You wrap the cable around something reasonably secure and the lock attaches directly to your notebook's security slot and you're done. Very quick and simple and you don't need a bag to keep from losing any parts (unless you tend to lose keys).

The Curtis system works but not nearly as easily as it could. The hassle it takes to secure a notebook is sure to prevent people from using it as often as they should. I've used both the Curtis and the Kensington systems at work and have decided on the Kensington system for my personal notebook computer. It costs a little extra but it is definitely worth the extra money.