While we always hope it will never happen to us, unfortunately, laptop theft is on the increase. While there are a certain number of precautions you can take to reduce the chance of your laptop being stolen, such as using a lock to secure it to a table, should the worst happen, you will want to know your data is safe.
You might think that using a Windows password will stop unauthorised users form logging on, but if the hard drive is placed in a drive caddy, it’s a simple matter to access the data. However, the Samsung N310 comes with Phoenix FailSafe, which is designed to keep your data secure, should you lose or have your netbook stolen.
The way it works is that FailSafe is built into the BIOS (part of the N310’s hardware that controls the startup process), as well as Windows, and enables you to manage your N310 remotely, over the Internet. There are several key features which can help you determine the location of the netbook, once it has been stolen.
How to backup your Samsung N310 netbook
Although the N310 does not include a GPS receiver, should one be connected, then FailSafe can use that data and forward the coordinates to you. When connected to the Internet, the system will determine the IP allocated to the N310, as well as the ISP and if connected by Wi-Fi, will report back the SSID of the wireless network, signal strength and encryption used.
The N310’s built-in Webcam can also be remotely activated, and the pictures taken can be used to help identify the location, or the person who is now using the netbook. A further option is for a keylogger to be installed which will capture useful information, such as the email addresses being used, usernames and so on, all of which can help identify the thief.
Of course, locating the netbook is only one aspect, you also want to ensure your data is secure, and Failsafe has that covered, as well. Once you connect to the N310, you have a number of options. You can choose to retrieve any files stored on the hard drive, if you don’t have backup copies, you can erase files and folders stored on the N310’s hard drive, you can encrypt the data so it can’t be accessed, but remains intact, or you can even choose to disable the netbook, to stop further use.
Although no one wants to lose their netbook, with the Samsung N310 and Phoenix failsafe, you at least have the peace-of-mind that a thief will not be able to read your email, or access your files, and with the location tracking may even be quickly apprehend!
How to: Use the Samsung keyboard shortcutsAdvanced design features of the Samsung N310 
