USB Token

What Does USB Token Mean?

A USB token is a physical device that is used to establish personal identity without use of a password to access a network.

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A USB token is used to prove the user’s identity electronically, thus enhancing digital security. It provides secure and strong authentication for network access.

Techopedia Explains USB Token

Features of a USB token:

  • In the case of a cryptographic USB token, the private key resides in the token and it cannot be passed outside of the token. This results in creation of the digital signature on the token while signing the operation. Using a password to access the contents of the content token further enhances the security of the USB token. The private key can never be retrieved from the USB token.
  • Certain USB tokens store digital signatures, fingerprint details, or other biometric data, which could be used as cryptographic keys.
  • USB tokens needs to be plugged into the USB port of the device, whether directly or via an extension cable.
  • Most USB tokens can be carried in hand as a keychain or plugin as they do not need a reader.
  • Additional drivers are not required in most cases for USB tokens. Most of them require fewer drivers.
  • One of the benefits of a USB token is its ability to securely encrypt files and emails or digital contracts.
  • Most USB tokens are durable and reliable.
  • Help desk and training costs for resources can be minimized with the plug-and-play capabilities of a USB token.
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Margaret Rouse

Margaret Rouse is an award-winning technical writer and teacher known for her ability to explain complex technical subjects to a non-technical, business audience. Over the past twenty years her explanations have appeared on TechTarget websites and she's been cited as an authority in articles by the New York Times, Time Magazine, USA Today, ZDNet, PC Magazine and Discovery Magazine.Margaret's idea of a fun day is helping IT and business professionals learn to speak each other’s highly specialized languages. If you have a suggestion for a new definition or how to improve a technical explanation, please email Margaret or contact her…