Hey there! I'm searching for a reliable laptop locking solution for an office where employees sit at different desks each day. We have various laptop models like Dell, HP, and MacBooks, meaning the security lock sizes can vary significantly. I came across a Kensington locking dock that used a K-Fob badge, allowing you to lock and unlock the laptop with the same badge when you change desks. Unfortunately, that product seems to be discontinued. Does anyone know of any alternatives? If there aren't any, how do you all handle this? Do you require employees to carry their locking cables around with them? Thanks for any suggestions!
6 Answers
Why even bother locking them at desks? Just educate your users about not leaving their laptops unattended. We collect any laptops left behind, and owners have to explain why theirs is missing. They can either take their laptops to meetings or store them securely elsewhere.
I’d recommend against using docking stations; they tend to age quickly and can lead to wear and tear. Instead, consider setting up your workspace so everything connects through a single USB-C cable. This setup works well for us and connects all peripherals, including multiple monitors and power.
The HP G5 USB-C dock or a similar model from Dell is a solid choice. They work great and handle everything you need.
Just to clarify, I’m asking about locking stations, not docking stations! Check out this video on the Kensington Locking Station for the ideal setup: [Video Link].
If it’s about MacBooks, keep in mind they don’t generally come with Kensington locks. You might want to look into other means of securing them instead.
Just a thought: if physical security is truly a concern—though it’s not super common these days—you could use Absolute software, which can remotely disable stolen hardware instead of adding extra complications for users.
CCTV can be a great help if you’re worried about someone stealing laptops. We keep an eye on the footage; if a laptop goes missing, we can track it down. Plus, it’s best to just take your laptop with you if you’re anxious about theft.
Honestly, I’d say don’t bother with locks for hot desking. I’ve never seen an office where devices are permanently locked to desks. If you must, just go with standard Kensington locks. You can loop them around a table leg, but keep in mind they wear out over time and might not last through constant locking and unlocking.
And you could use docks with replaceable USB cables for added convenience.