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IBM Thinkpad R51 Notebook Computer

If you want a laptop computer that provides as much security for your data as possible, IBM is worth considering. IBM specializes in products for executives that can't afford to have confidential corporate information stolen.

Without getting too technical, IBM provides extra layers of security over what most laptop manufacturers do. One innovative feature available is the Fingerprint Reader available on some IBM models like the Thinkpad R51. You scan your finger along the reader and only you or authorized uses can use the computer. That provides a more positive form of security than relying on a password. Embedded Security Subsystem that uses a special chip which can download security software from IBM. Also, the model uses the Microsoft Windows Professional version, which offers slightly better security than the Home version.

IBM computers are also unique in that they come with a Rescue and Recovery feature. This goes beyond Windows System Restore. It's a one-button solution that includes a set of self recovery tools to help users diagnose, get help and recover from a software crash, even if the primary operating system will not boot. It helps with everything from complete software failure to occasions when you need only to restore a corrupted or deleted file. There's actually a complete functional second operating system besides Windows that can be used tin the event Windows won't start. You may never see it, but it's there. Hopefully, you'll never need it, but if you do, you press the blue button to launch the rescue feature. 

Most computers are really very much the same in that they just use parts like hard drives and CPUs from various vendors, but the overall configuration is the same. But IBM really has tried to figure out what would be a better configuration. Their models provide unique solutions to very common real world problems, but they are practical and straightforward to use.

If you want to protect your data, IBM is a good choice. The Thinkpad R51 is about $1,150, but can be customized on the IBM website when you order it.

 

July 2005