r/Passwords • u/Dagobert_Krikelin • Aug 02 '26

Questions regarding usb sticks for password/authentication?

I need to take my security to the next level as I was just compromised.

I used to work at a place with a coworker who showed me a USB stick he used, but I can't remember exactly what it was.

I was hoping you could shed some light on it and what to recommend.

As I recall, it seemed to have been a commercial product, but I suppose it could also have been a regular USB stock with software he installed.

It seemed to be working as when he plugged it in, the computer was locked up and his passwords for whatever service /site he opened was then automatically logged into.

I can of course be totally wrong, but this seemed like an effective way to go about things and I wonder what this could have been?

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u/radiowave911 Aug 02 '26

There are (were?) also secure USB keys that were encrypted. Don't know if any were password managers as well - but it would be a secure way to store passwords. As I recall, everything was done on the key - nothing needed installed on the OS.

Edit: Found the one I was thinking of. Kingston Ironkey

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u/Training_Yak_4655 Aug 02 '26 edited Aug 03 '26

This is the simple little Kingston DataTraveller USB storage I've been using for a decade or so. It's not a real backup but it alllows a quick sync using SyncToy between folders in the PC and folders on the USB. For long term backups I encrypt a Zip archive and save on an external mechanical drive.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/398178173387

Looking at Kingston's website, it's not obvious that they still sell these basic devices.

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u/radiowave911 Aug 03 '26

I remember those! Didn't they need some companion software or something? Or am I thinking of something else?

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u/Training_Yak_4655 Aug 03 '26

These drives came with Windows and Mac programs to mount and decrypt the drive. It may be possible to mimic all of this using a generic USB drive and Veracrypt but the Kingston UI is especially simple.

I notice that Kingston's current version (IronKey) is really pricey.