The idea of using different "keys" to limit or prevent access to a computer isn't exactly new. A while back we shared a video from LGR explaining why old PCs have a lock, and many programs used hardware modules connected to LPT ports as a form of DRM. USB Raptor takes that concept and turns it into a solution to block your PC with a USB drive. If you remove that drive, nobody gets access.
Keeping order and security on a shared computer is a titanic task. From unauthorized applications to the magical "nobody did it" when something breaks, conflicts wear down even the most patient administrators. The temptation to toss the computer out the window can be great, but there are other alternatives.
With a strong restriction policy, it's always possible to set up a profile aimed at reducing the number of "accidents", and there's also the option to block access entirely if certain conditions aren't met. In this case, I'm referring to connecting a USB drive, an external hard drive, or a similar removable unit. The key to making that strategy work is installing something like USB Raptor.
How to Block Your PC with a USB Drive Using USB Raptor
The program doesn't require a traditional installation; it's enough to place its executable in a temporary folder. The "simple" configuration mode only asks you to enter a password for encryption (and to unlock the computer if there are problems), connect the USB drive that will be used as the key, and "arm" USB Raptor.
On the other hand, the advanced configuration divides the total options into six categories. There you can activate the program with Windows startup, have it start armed in all sessions, protect the USB Raptor interface with a password (very important), enable a grace period to interrupt unwanted lockouts, and modify the look of the lock screen, among other things. The official documentation has 29 pages and there are no Spanish translations, but I think you'll master USB Raptor in a matter of minutes.
In essence, if several people have access to your computer, USB Raptor's plan is that they can't use it without your physical authorization, that is, connecting the drive with the encrypted key inside. There are also advanced modes that allow you to unlock the PC remotely or associate the key generation with the serial number of the drive, and I definitely recommend exploring them. The program is free and open source.
