Password Key was designed to provide a limited amount of security to your Macintosh system with emphasis on "security without modification" in its processes. Even though it offers a fairly high level of security to the average "looker", it does not in any way, affect either the hardware configuration, system software, or any of your files.

When used properly, Password Key should provide you with at least the knowledge of "illegal attempts" to enter your system, and at best, with a system that is left alone with its integrity kept complete.

What does it do?

Password Key is designed to be set as the startup application for your computer. When it is run, it records the date and time that the session was started, covers the screen, locks you out of any other programs that may be running (including the finder) and then waits for the user to enter the password. (It can also be run anytime you want for added security while taking a break, etc.) With Password Key 4.0, you can now set your preferences so that it runs whenever you have left your computer for a certain length of time.

If the correct password is entered, it records the fact that this was a "successful entry," then quits, allowing access to your system. However, if an incorrect entry is made, the entry, along with the date and time are recorded for you to view later. After five (5) (or any number you set) incorrect entries, the user is warned that the system is shutting down, a siren sound is played, the illegal entry is recorded, and the computer is shut down (or not, depending on your settings).

If the user attempts to break out of the program using any command key sequence, the system records the attempt and then shuts down immediately, keeping them from accessing the system.

When you start your system back up after an illegal attempt, the program starts up as usual and waits for the password. If you enter the correct password, you will be able to view the records to see if other attempts were made since your last successful logon.